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HOPPING INTO TAWONGA’S 180TH CELEBRATIONS

Candidates campaign

Battle

lines

THE battle for the federal seat of Indi has begun in earnest, with candidates quickly pivoting into full campaign mode following Prime Minister Anthony Albanese o cially dissolving parliament on Friday morning and calling a federal election on 3 May.

for Indi

BY

electorate have been drawn with federal election called for 3 May

BAILEY

ZIMMERMANN bzimmermann@ nemedia.com.au

The announcement, just days after Labor handed down its 2025/26 federal budget, kickstarts a fiveweek election campaign for candidates.

Incumbent Independent Helen Haines, Liberal James Trenery, Labor’s Mitch Ridges, The Greens’ Alysia Regan, Family First Party’s Michael White, One Nation’s Athol Thomas and Libertarian Party’s Tim Quilty have already de-

clared their candidacy.

While the Nationals, who polled 3.7 per cent of the primary vote in the 2022 Indi election, are a non starter, other candidates are likely to emerge before nominations close on April 10.

Incumbent Independent MP Helen Haines will be seeking her third term this election and said she would be ghting for what matters to Indi, not party politics.

“We set our own priori-

ties right here in Indi and I’ll keep ghting for a fair deal for us and for regional Australia,” she said.

Dr Haines outlined key election pledges going into her campaign would include the Border community’s fight for a new Albury-Wodonga hospital, further local infrastructure to unlock new housing, improve health services, access to childcare and telecommunications and

government accountability.

“I’ve got a strong track record and worked across party lines and with governments of both stripes,” she said.

“Whether that’s been ghting for stranded communities during the pandemic, relief for communities impacted by bush res, shaping the national agenda with housing solutions, and securing a National AntiCorruption Commission,

I’ve had local impact and national in uence.

“We share a vision of what Indi is and could be.” Liberal candidate James Trenery is looking to win the Indi seat for his party for the rst time in 12 years.

For the Liberals to overcome the orange wave, Mr Trenery would need to pull o a near nine per cent swing from the 2022 election.

■ Continued page 2 ■ More stories page 2

HUNDREDS of people helped celebrate Tawonga’s 180th anniversary on the weekend, with hessian sack races just one of the fun activities for the children. A bush dance, historical exhibits and other community events were also part of the celebrations. Full stories pages 10, 11.

PHOTO: Jooyon Kang

Greens hope to sow seeds of change with Indi candidate

By SHAUN MCMAHON

COMMUNITY advocate

Alysia Regan has been announced as the Greens candidate for the seat of Indi in the federal election, pledging to push for climate action, a ordable housing and a stronger regional voice in Canberra.

Ms Regan, who has previously stood as a Greens candidate for the District of Sandringham in the 2022 Victorian state election, and in the 2024 Bayside council election, brings a background in not-for-pro t work, community advocacy and early childhood education.

She currently divides her time between metropolitan Melbourne and her family’s farm in Taggerty, in the Murrindindi Shire.

“My family have been proud Murrindindi Shire small business owners in the town of Taggerty for 45 years,” she said.

“I work on my primary producing farm on weekends and during school holidays, with my three daughters who enjoy riding their motorbikes around the 125 acre property.”

Ms Regan has served on campaign and branch com-

mittees for the Bayside Glen Eira Greens and has been nominated for several civic awards, including the Victorian Disability Awards, as well as council’s Woman of the Year and Citizen of the Year.

“I have a strong history in advocacy across the not-forpro t, community and early childhood education sectors,” she said.

“I’ve been recognised for promoting rights for people with disability.”

In announcing her candidacy for Indi, Ms Regan said she would be a voice for regional communities.

“We’re in a housing crisis and regional Victoria is being le behind,” she said.

“In Indi, more than 40 per cent of renters are experiencing rental stress.”

Ms Regan criticised the major parties for continuing to support fossil fuel projects, arguing the electorate is already bearing the brunt of climate change.

“Labor and the Coalition are both backing new coal and gas and worsening the climate crisis,” she said.

“Meanwhile, regional Victoria is experiencing more climate-related disasters, including bush res and oods.”

Ms Regan said the Greens’ platform o ers voters a real alternative.

“I’m proud to be part of a party that is ghting for no new coal and gas, publicly

owned renewable energy, cheaper groceries, and a rent freeze,” she said.

“We want to make big corporations pay their fair share of tax and fund things

we all need, like dental and mental health into Medicare and government-built homes to rent and buy.

“If you want change, it’s time to vote for it.”

By STEVE KELLY

LIBERAL candidate for Indi, James Trenery, is fully supporting his party’s policy to build nuclear power stations if the Coalition wins government.

It comes a er Liberals Against Nuclear launched an advertising campaign against the party’s plan to build nuclear power plants.

The group asserted that the party had gone silent on nuclear energy in its advertising, which the group said con rms the policy does not have internal party support.

Liberals Against Nuclear spokesperson Andrew Gregson said they avoid mentioning nuclear in their advertising because they know voters don’t want it.

“If the party leadership knows this policy is unpopular enough to hide from voters, they should abandon it so they can win the election and put Peter Dutton in the Lodge,” Mr Gregson said.

Mr Trenery defended the policy and highlighted the high cost of energy and Labor’s promise that Australians power bills would be $275 lower.

He said families and businesses are paying up to $1300 more than Labor promised.

Battle lines for Indi electorate drawn: federal election 3 May

■ From page 1

He said he is looking to deliver on the community’s call for change.

“Here in the North East, the past three years have been tough… we have not got our fair share,” the former Indigo Shire councillor said.

Mr Trenery has pledged to follow through with his party’s plan to halve the fuel excise and drop the price of fuel by around 24 cents per litre, as well as delivering on cheaper energy with a mix of renewables, and “getting tough” on violent crime.

“Our Liberal plan will lower the cost of living immediately,” he said.

“We can’t a ord another three years of Labor and Helen Haines.”

Wodonga social worker Mitch Bridges will be vying for the seat as Indi’s Labor candidate, and said this election “is a clear choice between Labor building Australia’s future and strengthening Medicare with an $8.5b boost, or Peter Dutton, who will cut services and make you pay”.

“I’m committed to supporting our community with real solutions... under the Albanese Government, we’ve eased cost-of-living pressures through energy bill relief, tax cuts, and investments in a ordable housing and childcare,” he said.

“We’re also improving the Pharmaceutical Bene ts Scheme (PBS)

to make medicines more a ordable, and our industrial relations reforms have improved working conditions and provided better security for workers.”

is The Greens’ candidate, said the Indi electorate was being le behind in terms of housing.

“This election, we can’t keep voting for the same two parties and expect a di erent result,” she said.

“Labor and the Coalition are both backing new coal and gas and worsening the climate crisis… meanwhile, regional Victoria is experiencing more climate-related disasters, including bush res and oods.

“I’m proud to be part of a party that is ghting for no new coal and gas, publicly owned renewable energy, cheaper groceries, and a rent freeze.”

Family First Party of Australia

farming and focus on the agricultural sector will bring him votes.

“I want to provide an alternate for a lot of people who have become disenfranchised with Liberal in particular,” he said.

“One Nation policies are fantastic policies that are clearly geared towards the reduction of cost-of living, reduction of energy costs and future growth for Australians.

“They’re all policies that impact Indi quite signi cantly and I don’t know if Helen Haines has presented

ENROL TO VOTE

The Australian Electoral Commission has advised that you must be correctly enrolled by 8pm Monday, 7 April, to vote in the federal election.

For more details go to the AEC website.

anything forward in her six years of being in parliament that have assisted the electorate in any of those

“People really need to delve deeper into what political parties o er... it’s not just what’s at face value that comes across a lot of mainstream

One Nation tallied the fourth most primary votes in the 2022 election under candidate Beth Stevens, with 5.28pc.

Other parties to have candidates run in the last election including the Animal Justice Party and United Australia Party (Trumpet of Patriots Party) have yet to announce if they’ll contest Indi.

Indi has been held by an Independent since Cathy McGowan beat then Liberal incumbent Sophie Mirabella at the 2013 election.

“Australians now pay among the highest electricity prices in the world, far higher than nations which have nuclear in the mix,” Mr Trenery said.

“Australia sits idle while other nations pledge to triple global nuclear capacity by 2050 and companies like Microso , Google, Amazon, and Oracle pour billions into nuclear energy to power AI and data centers.”

Mr Trenery said under Anthony Albanese, Australia is now the only G20 nation not using nuclear energy or moving in that direction and it’s “a global embarrassment caused by Labor’s ideological obsession”.

“Labor’s failure to even consider nuclear energy puts Australia at odds with its AUKUS allies, who are making nuclear a cornerstone of their energy, defence and climate strategies,” he said.

“While countries like the US, UK, and Canada are leveraging nuclear to meet their net-zero targets and ensure energy security, Labor’s ideological obstruction leaves Australia isolated, cut o from key global trends.”

ON THE TRAIL: Alysia Regan will contest the federal seat of Indi for the Greens.

Community meal helps seal funds for doctor’s memorial

By PHOEBE MORGAN

A SMORGASBORD dinner was recently held at the Savoy Club in Myrtleford, as a fundraiser towards the memorial bust of the late Dr Peter Broughton (pictured) to be installed in Myrtleford’s Jubilee Park.

Memorial group member Anita Toner said the group would

like to thank the community for such a resounding ‘yes’ to the memorial and “helping us get over the line with the funds needed for the project”.

“Thanks also to the Savoy Club for their support and organisation and for the delicious meal.

“We’ll keep the community informed with updates about

the memorial as time goes on.”

Plans to install a bust and plaque in Jubilee Park to commemorate the valuable contribution made by Dr Broughton continue.

Donations towards the bust can still be made at the WAW Bank in Clyde Street.

“The plaque is on the go and the bust will take another

couple of months to arrange,” fellow memorial organiser, Julie Brandellero said.

“If there are any donations still coming in that are excess to our needs, they will be directed to Barwidgee Lodge or the Myrtleford Hospital to support local medical services in the area in Dr Broughton’s honour.”

Hops harvested, now time to christen HPA’s Myrtleford processing facility

HOP Products Australia (HPA) has nished picking this season’s hops harvest and is expected to begin processing in its new multimillion dollar state-of-theart Hops Central facility in Myrtleford from as early as this week.

HPA Victorian farm manager Aaron Bailey said both yield and quality of the hops

harvested throughout the Alpine Valleys was good.

“The conditions have been perfect for the most part, with warm and dry days, and calm and cool nights,” he said.

“HPA’s Victorian hop harvest started on March 5 and since then we’ve been operating 24 hours a day, six days a week.

“To meet the required throughput, our team of 45 permanent sta grows by around 240 casual sta over harvest.”

HPA’s Hop Central facility has been developed at the former Tobacco Cooperative of Victoria (TVC) property, with works over the pasts two years seeing the expansive four separate buildings,

totalling more than 22,000 square metres, now home to a pellet plant, packaging line and cold storage facility.

HPA, which is Australia’s largest hops grower, aims to e ectively double its former processing capacity, with the new Myrtleford facility to support the centralisation of pelleting and packaging

hops from HPA’s Victorian and Tasmanian growing regions, which will total 900 hectares or an estimated 2400 metric tonnes.

HPA’s brewing customers include locals in the High Country brewery system, national cra breweries, as well as international cra breweries.

Approximately 40 per

Grant helps RSL upgrade furniture

By PHOEBE MORGAN

THE Myrtleford RSL has recently acquired a number of new chairs and couches a er receiving a grant from Nutrien Ivone Ag Solutions via their community grants program.

One of a number of grants received, the branch applied for $4800 to put towards the new collection, which includes eight individual seats, a pair of three-seater couches and a pair of two-seater couches.

Myrtleford RSL past president, Bryan Meehan, said $10,000 was spent on the new items of furniture, with the RSL making up the di erence.

“The only thing we want to do now is install standing lamps and some more co ee tables, so members can use the space for reading,” he said.

“We were looking for furniture that was strong, comfortable and easy to get in and out of.

“The Myrtleford sub branch wishes to sincerely thank Nutrien Ivone Ag Solutions for their support and in particular,

Myrtleford’s branch manager, Bernard Ivone.

“Without the help of the grant we received, this wouldn’t have happened.”

Mr Ivone said Nutrien was happy to be of assistance.

“It’s good to be able to help the

RSL with their grant,” he said.

The new furniture is the most recent step in the RSL’s overall plan to upgrade the building.

“We wanted to buy the furniture for our members to use as well as other groups who use the facility,” Mr Meehan said.

cent of the crop will remain in the domestic market, with the remaining 60 per cent exported to craft beer markets around the world.

HPA’s board members will visit Myrtleford in late April for a scheduled board meeting and hold an o cial opening ceremony for the facility.

“These RSL rooms can potentially be a place of comfort in extreme hot or cold conditions, or sometimes ooding events.

“Some people might not have air conditioning at their place, so they can come here for a few hours reprieve.”

CHEERS: Nutrien Ivone Ag Solutions’ Myrtleford branch manager Bernard Ivone (le ) and Myrtleford RSL past president Bryan Meehan tested out the new furniture.

Tawonga community celebrated 180th in style

By FAY MASON, Kiewa

TAWONGA township came alive last weekend in a big way.

The celebrations for the town’s 180 year anniversary started with the bush dance on Friday, and there was a huge crowd gathered at Pioneer Park to attend the official ceremony on Saturday.

Tawonga District Community Association (TDCA) president Mark Redmond said it was great to see such a large turn out and support.

At events like this it’s a good way of catching up with old friends.

There was a huge cake for the official ceremony with Ovens Valley state MP Tim Mc Curdy in attendance.

The wonderful TDCA volunteers worked all day cooking a free sausage sizzle.

Children enjoyed the baby animals, chicks, rabbit kittens, alpaca, chooks and more.

An amazing display in the Tawonga hall showed many photographs and items from the beginning of the settlement.

The weekend finished with a

church service on Sunday followed by a Devonshire Tea.

will be held on Sunday, 6 April, starting at 10am through til 4 pm, at the Mt Beauty Community Centre.

psychic readings, pranic healing, pilates and yoga demonstrations (bring your yoga mat).

bridges science with spirituality, will be the special guest.

OFFICIAL CELEBRATION: Joining in the o icial celebrations at Tawonga’s 180th anniversary were (from le ) Dot Higginson, TDCA president Mark Redmond and Ovens Valley MP Tim McCurdy.

Heart health a popular focus in Myrtleford

By PHOEBE MORGAN

MORE than 80 people attended last Thursday evening’s ‘Healthy Hearts Community Talk’, hosted by Alba Health at St Paul’s Church in Myrtleford.

Attendees were able to gain expert insights regarding heart disease prevention and management, hear some top tips for maintaining a healthy-heart lifestyle and to nd out more about the free Healthy Hearts Program introduced last year.

Program organiser and general practitioner at Alba Health, Dr Justin Donaldson, said the evening went really well, with a great community response.

“The number of audience members who were engaging with the talks was great,”Dr Donaldson said.

“Rebecca Piazza from Flexout Health, Roslyn Bloomer from the PACE program at Alpine Health and our visiting cardiologist, Dr Julian Yeoh, all spoke about the best ways to protect your heart.

“I gave an overview of the program and explained our aims are not just to identify potential heart problems, but also to educate the community.

“Events such as this community talk evening are incredibly helpful to provide a platform for the community to interact with us in an informal manner, outside of making an appointment.

COMMUNITY CARDIAC CARE: (from le ) Alba Health Dr Alison Mahony, PACE nurse Roslyn Bloomer, cardiologist Dr Julian Yeoh, physiotherapist Rebecca Piazza from Flexout Health, exercise physiologist Greta Donaldson, with husband and program organiser Dr Justin Donaldson at last week’s successful Healthy Heart Community Talk information evening. INSET: ENLIGHTENING EVENING: Bruce and Robin Lamsden from Buckland Valley enjoyed the Healthy Hearts Talk put on by local and visiting medical experts.

NORTHEAST Health Wangaratta (NHW) is inviting community members from Alpine Shire to have their say in shaping the future of healthcare services in our region.

As part of the development of the NHW 2025 - 2028 Strategic Plan, it is launching a comprehensive community consultation process to gather valuable insights and feedback.

NHW representatives will be at the Bright Library on Thursday, April 3 from 9.30am to 11.30am to hear from members of the public.

Alternatively, you can complete an online survey (at northeasthealth.org.au/haveyour-say) up until April 17.

NHW CEO Libby Fifis said the consultation process is an opportunity to voice needs, concerns, and ideas to improve service accessibility and qual-

“We value a diverse range of perspectives, including those of First Nations communities, healthcare professionals, local businesses, and community groups,” she said.

Alba Health is also proud to introduce two new hires: nurse prac-

“We’re really grateful for the support we have received from community, as well as from Dr Julian, Flexout Health, Medtronic who provided funding for the event and to Murray Primary Health Network (PHN).”

titioner Stephen Voogt who has over 30 years of experience working across the healthcare sector and overseas; and general practitioner Dr Christina Dumitrescu, whose special interests are emergency medicine and mental health, der-

matology, skin checks and minor surgery procedures.

For more information about the Healthy Hearts Program visit: https://albahealth.com.au/healthyhearts-program/ or visit Alba Health’s Facebook page.

“We want to hear from as many people as possible to ensure our strategic plan truly reflects the needs and priorities of the community we serve.

“Every voice matters, and we encourage everyone to take part in this important consultation process.”

Colour Fun Run

PHOTOS: Jennifer Zamperoni

Bright students leave classroom to gain experience in workforce

By SINTA O’DONNELL, on work experience

BRIGHT P-12 College’s year 10 students swapped the classroom for workplaces last week as they participated in work experience placements.

The program received good feedback from students, whose work placements ranged from nursing to construction.

Year 10 student, Renae Blake, worked in the St John of God Hospital at Geelong, which was arranged by her uncle Michael Borschmann, an otolaryngologist, with help from the school’s careers coordinator, Jane Mildren.

She was able to sit in an operating theatre, walk around with and observe ward nurses as well as a speech pathologist.

Her work hours varied, primarily from 8:30am to 5pm or 7:30am to 4pm.

Renae believes that her work experience further guided her to a career path, or rather away from one.

“I de nitely wouldn’t want to be a nurse, surgeon or anaesthetist,” she said, noting that observing surgery wasn’t for her.

Fellow student, Lara Lindner, completed her work experience in Jason Coleman’s Ministry of Dance at North Melbourne.

To apply for the placement, she was required to ll out forms and give them some background information on herself and her dance abilities.

“Basically, I had to sell myself and tell them why they should accept me,” Lara said.

facilities.

She did professional dance lessons with the Ministry of Performing Arts College (MOPAC) high school.

Lara said the experience overall was very enjoyable, but would have liked it if she was able to dance full time over the course of her placement instead of just at high school level.

“Dancing, acting and sing-

ing professionally is something I want for my career,” Lara said.

“The dancing lessons have been very hard, but good.

“I’ve learned a lot and really feel as though it’s helped me to improve.

“It’s shown me what it’s like dancing in a professional environment, taking notes on the rehearsals.”

Work experience really aided in helping Bright P-12’s students’ in their journey to future careers and in knowing what suits them or doesn’t.

As for myself, work experience in North East Media, which publishes our weekly Myrtleford Times and Alpine Observer newspapers, has been very enjoyable.

I’ve done a range of things, from working remotely, in the Myrtleford o ce and in the Wangaratta o ce.

I’ve learned a lot and really broadened my knowledge of writing styles.

A er being taught how to write in a journalism style I feel I’ve improved a great deal.

I love the working environment in the o ce, where it’s

very independent yet there’s still community.

The most challenging part has been waiting back on emails or feedback, which le me not knowing what to do.

Overall, I’ve learned a lot about what suits me workplace wise and would love to pursue a career involving English and language.

HERE’S THE NEWS: Sinta O’Donnell had a great time working in the Myrtleford and Wangaratta o ices, including touring the press

PHOTO: Kurt Hickling

FUN TIME: Lara Lindner (centre) met new people and gained valuable experience at her placement at Jason Coleman’s Ministry of Dance at North Melbourne.

IN HER SCRUBS: Renae Blake, dressed ready for surgery, enjoyed her week of work placement at St John of God Hospital at Geelong.

Good Friday fundraiser gives rise to a magical fairy garden in Myrtleford

By PHOEBE MORGAN

MYRTLEFORD’S Geo and Kathy Dyt are preparing a number of nal displays ahead of their annual Open Magical Garden and Miniature Fantasy Scene showcase.

The couple are once more inviting the public to drop in and view the colourful collection on display in the front and back gardens, lled with whimsical handmade and second-hand trinkets, with the aim to bring joy to all attendees, with all proceeds raised to go towards this year’s Royal Melbourne Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal.

The creations started with Kathy making little dioramas for their grandchildren several years ago.

“I started with one and it went on from there,” she said.

“Eventually, we got into putting on an entire fairy garden.

“My sisters Cheryl and Julie and I go to op-shops and garage sales to nd beautiful trinkets and ornaments.

“I think the locals will be pleasantly surprised to see what we’ve been able to do with their old possessions.

“The dioramas in the open garden will be for display only, but I have made other dioramas which our grand-

children play with when they visit.

“Julie is a renowned artist and a quilter: we’ll have

Lawn’s last Barefoot Bowls, to help sick kids

By PHOEBE MORGAN

THE Myrtleford Bowls Club is set to combine celebrations for its final Barefoot Bowls evening for the season with a community fundraising event next week in aid of this year’s Royal Melbourne Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal.

Over summer, Barefoot Bowls evenings are held at the local club, scheduled across two programs: the first from November to December, with a break over Christmas and January, before activities resume in February and run all the way to Easter.

“On average there’s about 50 to 60 people who attend the club per week,” club board member, Peter Sharkey said.

“Guests have a great night...we set up the music machine and they can play several rounds of bowls, catching up and enjoying themselves.

“For this last Barefoot Bowls event for this part of the year, we’d like to invite the community to our club to have a fun night for a great cause.”

Attendees can come along and play a round or two of lawn bowls, with supper

provided and the bar open, lucky door prizes, raffles and more.

Myrtleford’s Good Friday Appeal area manager and club assistant greenskeeper, Geoff Dyt, said it will be a fun bowls night for the whole family.

“It should be a great night on the lawn for everyone,” Mr Dyt said.

The Barefoot Bowls event will be held on Tuesday, 8 April from 7pm, with $5 entry and drinks at bar prices.

Lawn bowls will be supplied on the night to participants who do not have their own.

• Closing loopholes in competition law to prevent wage fixing and no-poach agreements.

Treasurer aims to “rebuild living standards”

•

• $12 million over four years to support and protect small businesses.

• Pausing indexation on draught beer excise and excise equivalent customs duty rates for two years from August 2025.

• Increasing the excise remission scheme cap for manufacturers of alcoholic beverages to $400,000 per financial year from 1 July 2026.

4. Energy Bill Relief

• Two $75 bill rebates directly off electricity bills until 31 December 2025.

5. Housing Initiatives

• Expansion of the ‘Help to Buy’ scheme with increased income caps and property price caps linked to average house prices.

6. Non-Compete Clauses and Competition Law Changes

• Banning non-compete clauses for employees earning less than the high-income threshold from 2027.

Much of the 2025 Federal Budget was already known, after a volley of pre-election spruiking for votes. But Treasurer Jim Chalmers had one surprise up his sleeve - $17 billion in tax cuts. The first round of cuts will kick in on 1 July 2026 and second round on 1 July 2027, saving the average earner $536 each year when fully implemented.

The Treasurer named five priorities for his fourth budget: helping with the cost of living, strengthening Medicare, building more homes, investing in education, and making the economy stronger.

He called it a plan for “a new generation of prosperity in a new world of uncertainty” that would help “finish the fight against inflation”.

“The plan at the core of this Budget is about more than putting the worst behind us. It’s about seizing what’s ahead of us,” the Treasurer says.

See below the key points from our budget analysis. If you have any questions about the budget measures announced, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

a display set up for her to showcase her needlework and other projects.

“There will also be activities for kids...they can hunt for ornaments in the displays and when they tick them all o the list, they get a prize.

“I’m nishing o painting some garden features at the moment and I’m still planning to start on some new ones.”

Geo , who is Myrtleford’s area manager for the Good Friday Appeal, said a friend has o ered to add a number of the High Country miniature hut models he has collected to this year’s display.

“It’s an opportunity for the community to see some great local cra smanship up close,” he said.

“Our friend will lend us 15 or 16 of them, which I think will t in nicely with the open garden this year.

“There will also be a small ra e on o er, for people who attend the open garden.

“However the main Good Friday Appeal ra e, which we run at local supermarkets, is going on right now

and will be drawn on Good Friday.

“Last year the Myrtleford district raised over $33,000.

“Hopefully we are able to do something similar again this year.”

The ra e’s rst-prize winner will have the choice of either a Greenpower 60V Blower Kit, donated by Ovens Valley Chainsaws and Lawnmowers, valued at $449 or an Endota Spa Rejuvenate Package, including a 120-minute treatment of massage, facial, cleanse, destress and refresh session, valued at $330.

The ra e’s third prize is an Endota Spa Travel Case, which contains a number of quality skincare products.

The fourth prize is a Cadbury Easter hamper, donated by the Good Friday Appeal, which is full of scrumptious seasonal goodies.

The Open Garden showcase will be held at 33 Elgin Street, Myrtleford, on Thursday 10 to Sunday 13, April, from 10am to 4pm, (open from 9am Saturday 12, April), with entry only a gold-coin donation.

Sharkey (le ) and Wayne Langdon, with greenskeeper Geo Dyt (centre) prepare the club ahead of this year’s Good Friday Appeal Barefoot Bowls evening. PHOTO: Phoebe Morgan

GARDEN GAIETY: Kathy and Geo Dyt’s annual Open Garden showcase is taking shape, set to amaze attendees and raise funds for the Good Friday Appeal. PHOTOS: Phoebe Morgan

Helen Haines is not a Saint

HELEN Haines (Indi federal MP) may indeed be “relentless in her advocacy”, but she is missing any detail about outcomes.

I fail to see anything concrete arising from the “depths” of Helen’s dedication to the “broader national interest”.

Does this refer to the Voice referendum, where Helen got it so wrong; where nearly 70 per cent of the electorate of Indi voted No?

This was a gross failure to gauge local sentiment.

An MP’s rst task is to represent their own electorate, not to force agendas originating in Fitzroy or Newtown.

Does voting in support of water buy-backs help an electorate that relies on agriculture for its prosperity?

Or voting to support bans on sheep exports?

Helen Haines can only be judged by a couple of metrics.

The rst is her voting record, and that is unarguable – water buybacks and sheep export bans ultimately hurt farmers in the North East.

The second could be budgetary outcomes, where the electorate of Indi benefits from government expenditure arising from a local members advocacy, and I’m not sure there’s much of that.

If Helen Haines were to be judged solely by the volume of her own newsletters, then she’s certainly a stellar performer.

Please, stop the tired fact-free adulation of Helen Haines.

George Browne, Myrtleford

Differing

perspectives must be respected

IN response to Sharon McEvoy’s letter (Alpine Observer/Myrtleford Times) 13 March regarding the community division over the BESS development, I want to acknowledge Sharon and her team for their e orts to keep Mint Renewables’ proposal to install batteries in the Kiewa Valley in the public eye.

However, as Sharon mentioned in her interview with the ABC, this issue has unfortunately divided our community.

Although the group opposing the proposal is united in their cause, the broader community has been fractured, with an attitude of “you’re either with us or against us”.

Now, more than ever, we must remember what has made Dederang a strong and vibrant place.

Our community thrives not only on shared values but also on mutual respect for di erences.

It’s natural for people to hold varied viewpoints, yet the strength of a community lies in its ability to connect and coexist despite those di erences - whether over a beer at Dave’s or a friendly chat with neighbours.

We should steer clear of behaviours that fracture the trust and inclusiveness that hold us together.

Instead, through empathy and understanding, we can ensure that everyone feels included and

valued, even if their perspectives or actions di er.

Let us remember the foundation of our strength - the spirit of unity and respect that de nes Dederang.

Maryellen Grealy, Kergunyah South

Empowering our community

SADLY, our region faces real division over the Dederang Battery Energy System (BESS) issue.

Disappointingly, the Alpine Shire’s response to the project was merely reactive rather than a demonstration of proactive leadership in helping us manage our transition to renewable energy.

Their reaction (to oppose the project) was also highly confusing given their previous strong, publicly stated declaration that a climate crisis exists and their development and approval of a carbon action plan for the shire.

In New South Wales, the Hay Renewable Energy Plan, coordinated by the Hay Shire Council, has proactively set clear community guidelines regarding the bene ts of grid-scale renewable projects within their shire.

This planning included identifying clear advantages for landholders, and the general community.

Potential nancial bene ts were noted to encompass household electricity subsidies, support for local early childhood centres and schools, assistance for local sports teams and support for

apprenticeships and training (very important in any regional area) throughout the 15-20 year lifespan of the project.

As such, the Hay community chose to view these projects through the lens of community bene t (the bigger picture), local nancial gains, and sustainable energy production. That is, they chose not to adopt a political or merely reactionary perspective because their focus was on multiple, long-term bene ts for the whole community.

In Australia, the renewable energy transition is being driven by households and businesses utilising roo op solar PV panels, battery storage, energy e ciency measures and electric vehicles.

By 2030, b-directional electric vehicle batteries are expected to play a signi cant role in furthering energy resilience and generating income. (These batteries could power a home for up to four days during a power outage and may generate approx. $3000 in income annually while parked in the garage.)

This will be a major driver for rural renewal and sustainability.

The BESS proposal is an example of agrivoltaics – wind and solar projects integrated into established farms where the farmer accepts involvement and receives nancial bene t.

This bene t provides ongoing land leased payments and a reliable income stream.

The time of merely reacting to these projects is past.

Knowing that we are running out of time to transition to renewables for our energy security and energy resilience, we now need to take responsibility for rethinking our

understanding of these situations.

Urban sprawl is a more signi cant threat to the loss of valuable farmland.

The Winton Solar Farm on the Hume Freeway is an example. Driving past, sheep are grazing amongst the panels.

Speci c bene ts for any farmer who chooses to lease land this way and keep farming include the shelter provided to the stock by the panels, particularly in hot weather. Stock grazing will keep the area clear of excessive growth (bush re resilience), plus, of course, the farmer now receives the capital bene ts of ongoing rental payments.

Grid-scale projects like BESS and smaller community-based battery storage solutions will bene t all electricity users in the evolving grid.

Electricity demand is estimated to increase by 30% over the next decade.

Without localised battery storage, this surge in demand may necessitate upgrades to the medium-voltage power system that serves our towns and villages and will increase our power bills.

Nearly half of our power bill goes to the poles and wires owned by AusNet Services.

Investing in energy storage will help stabilise energy ows within these systems, saving us money and reducing the bush re risk from high-voltage power lines during heat waves when energy demand is very high.

I encourage everyone to accept the challenge to reconsider this evolving situation and seek bene ts for the broader community.

Dennis Lambert, Bright

LETTERS to the editor must be signed with the full name, address and contact telephone number of the author provided. Letters under 250 words are preferred and we reserve the right to edit letters to fit available space.

Nom de plumes will only be published at the editor’s discretion. Opinions expressed are not necessarily shared by this newspaper.

Email: edit.timesobserver @nemedia.com.au

Post: North East Media 76 Standish Street, Myrtleford, Vic 3737

Hook into local produce at Autumn Food Festival

THERE is more than trout on the menu this Friday when Stony Creek Fish Farm at Harrietville plays host to a bevy of local producers at the Autumn Harvest Festival.

Organised by the Bright Food Co-op, together with Alpine Multi-Skills Group, the festival o ers the alpine community a chance to celebrate a wide range of locally produced foods, in the form of a picnic and twilight market.

Friday’s festival runs from 4pm to 8pm, with an added attraction being tours of the sh farm and large gardens.

Entry to the event will be by gold coin donation, with proceeds going toward the Bright Food Co-op Food Relief Fund.

Bright Food Co-op committee member, Gil Paulsen, is hopeful hundreds of people from

across the shire will attend.

“I think there’s still many people in our region who might not be aware of how much food is produced locally,” she said.

“There will be many delicious and nutritious food and drinks for sale at our festival, the majority of which is harvested now in autumn, all from local producers.

“Most of our sourced producers are utilising regenerative farming techniques or going chemical free.

“In line with our sustainability values, the event will be waste free, so we will be asking people to BYO picnic rug, cups, plates, cutlery and chairs.”

Musical entertainment for the evening will also be covered with DJ Tim from Wandiligong Farm in attendance.

OVENS Valley state MP

Tim McCurdy has slammed the state government over its latest moves on crime, while also taking a swing at the federal government for its “blatant disregard” for regional Victoria in last week’s federal budget.

The Nationals’ member said Victorian Premier Jacin-

ta Allan’s recent reversal on bail laws was “a desperate political move aimed at winning votes rather than ensuring community safety”.

“A er weakening bail laws in 2023, she’s now scrambling to reintroduce tougher measures for political convenience,” he said.

Mr McCurdy also criticised

State, federal governments slammed

the government’s delayed ban on machetes, which won’t take e ect until September.

“Delaying this change until September is too long...Victorians need immediate action to keep their communities safe,” he said.

“These reactive policies are failing to deliver long-

term solutions for community safety.”

Mr McCurdy also labelled a $1 billion ‘Road Blitz’ in last week’s federal budget as another example of the government’s blatant disregard for regional Victoria.

“The upgrade for roads across Melbourne’s sub-

urbs is a slap in the face for regional motorists who continue to risk their lives on deteriorating and neglected country roads,” he said.

“Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Premier Allan have once again put politics before people.

“While Labor funnel mon-

ey into Melbourne to win votes, regional Victorians are le dodging potholes, crumbling shoulders, and dangerous intersections.”

Mr McCurdy said the state of regional roads has become a daily hazard for locals, with no meaningful investment from either state or federal governments.

ON THE MENU: Stony Creek Fish Farm at Harrietville is hosting Bright Food Co-op’s annual Autumn Harvest Festival this Friday. INSET: SAVOURY SPREAD: There will be plenty of mouth-watering, locally produced food at the festival.

Commemorating a community milestone, with song and dance

By PHOEBE MORGAN

TAWONGA township celebrated its 180-year anniversary, combined with the reopening of the Tawonga Memorial Hall a er recent renovations over the weekend.

More than 500 people attended the celebrations, which started with the launch of the new hall on Friday evening, followed by a bush dance enjoyed by more than 160 people.

Saturday saw festivities kick o with o cial celebrations in the Tawonga Pioneer Memorial Park, complete with a landmark cake-cutting by Tawonga’s most senior resident, Dot Higginson, and Ovens Valley MP, Tim McCurdy.

Event organisers Tawonga and District Community Association (TDCA), in collaboration with the Kiewa Valley Historical Society Inc also compiled a Memories Showcase over the weekend, which displayed the history of the valley from the colonial era onwards and provided viewers insights from an agricultural, rst people’s and generational standpoint.

“The weekend was magnicent, we couldn’t be happier with the result,” TDCA president Mark Redmond said.

“It was a wonderful way to bring a broad landscape of people together, with visitors from all over the state to celebrate our history in the valley.

“We’ve gone through a lot... we’ve endured res, oods, Covid and yet the Tawonga community pulls through and it’s moments like this weekend which show how impressive the resilience of our community is.

“One of our key aims for the weekend, which was a huge success, was to show recent generations what life was like for rst generation settlers in the area.

“A lot of them didn’t know the region’s history or had never even seen a tractor up close.

“Over Saturday and Sunday there were 300-odd people circulating through the memory display: we saw some people two days in a row, because it was of such interest to them.

“We’ve received so many positive comments from this weekend: it just shows the value of local events such as this.

“With the support of the Alpine Shire Council, the Kiewa Valley Flood and Landslip Community Grants program 2024/2025 and the Kiewa Valley Historical Society (KVHS) we were able to host a successful weekend.

“We could not have put together our memories showcase without the help of the KVHS.

“A huge thank-you to my fellow committee organisers and

to those that supported them, to help run the event.

“Thanks also to members of the public and organisations who brought along photographs and memorabilia to add to the memorial display.

“Thanks to those who attended the festivities: we’ll see everyone at the 200 year anniversary.”

VIP CAKE CUTTING: The eldest member of the Tawonga community, Dot Higginson, helped MP Tim McCurdy cut Tawonga’s celebratory cake.

Federal Budget tax cuts an ‘election sweetener’: MP

By STEVE KELLY

TAX cuts in the 2025-26 Federal Budget have been welcomed by the Indi incumbent Helen Haines, something she labelled as an ‘election sweetener’ as it will ease the cost of living.

A key item in the budget has workers earning an average $79,000 a year paying $268 less in tax in 2026, rising to $536 in 2027.

From 1 July 2026, the tax rate on income earned between $18,201 and $45,000 will be cut from 16 per cent to 15 per cent, and will reduce even further to 14 per cent from July 2027.

But while the tax cuts would reduce pressure, Dr Haines said almost 5000 people in Indi are on JobSeeker and there are no provisions in this budget for increases to Commonwealth Rent Assistance, JobSeeker allowance or other Commonwealth support payments.

The government will extend rebates on electricity bills by six months, providing another $150 cut to power bills for households and small businesses.

But Dr Haines was not happy with the omission of funding for businesses to convert from gas to electric appliances.

“What is also still missing

for households and businesses is support to electrify,” she said.

“With the cost of domestic gas, Australians know that the best energy cost saver is rooftop solar and electri cation.”

Dr Haines welcomed funding to deliver more training places for doctors in regional Australia, and $7.9 billion to expand eligibility for bulk billing incentives to all Australians - which hs been been matched by the Coalition if elected.

However, she expressed disappointment with the absence of funding for Albury hospital, and its failure to continue support for small businesses to

reduce costs through energy upgrades.

Dr Haines was also angry that regional infrastructure programs like the Growing Regions and the regional Precincts and Partnerships Program, along with regional roads and housing infrastructure funding had no further funding committed in the budget.

“Regional councils and organisations rely on competitive grant programs like these for key projects and community infrastructure,” she said.

“The appalling state of our local roads is evidence that much more support is needed for our local government road programs.”

Lib candidate slams budget

LIBERAL candidate for Indi James Trenery has slammed the federal budget.

He said the budget was for the next five weeks, not the next five years.

“This is a budget for an election, not one for our country’s future prosperity,” he said.

“At a time when living standards have suffered the biggest collapse on record and when the security environment is the most dangerous since World War II, Labor’s budget has failed to deal with the economic and national security challenges our communities and country faces.”

Mr Trenery also took aim at Dr Haines’ capacity to harness funding for Indi.

“Locally, this budget is another example of Helen Haines’ funding failure,” he said.

“None of the local funding promised in Helen Haines’ 47 page Budget Submission was delivered.

“Year after year, we are not getting our fair share.”

SPIRITED SOIREE: A er recent renovations, Tawonga’s Memorial Hall was broken-in with a bush dance.

RENO REOPENING: Alpine Shire Council CEO Will Jeremy (le ) and Mayor Sarah Nicholas marked the reopening of the Tawonga Community Hall with a ribbon cutting with Emergency Recovery Victoria regional manager, Guy Wilkinson.

Celebrating our rich history

By BARB PYLE, Kiewa Valley Historical Society Inc

LAST weekend the Tawonga District Community Association along with the wider community and visitors, took the opportunity to celebrate the past 180 years of continuous settlement in the Upper Kiewa Valley.

The Kiewa Valley Historical Society Inc works very closely with the TDCA and supported the celebration by assisting the historical display with information and artefacts.

KVHS decided to mark this special milestone celebration by returning to the community and the streetscape the much-loved Bogong Hotel street lights.

When that historic Tawonga icon was burnt down in 2011, the beautiful street lights were rescued by a community member and placed in our care.

We believe that they belong in Tawonga and the TDCA has agreed to auspice this community project.

Tawonga township itself has a wonderful history.

For many years it was the centre of the universe for the citizens of the Upper Kiewa Valley and its growth ran parallel to the development of the agricultural industry.

The types of agriculture have been many and varied.

Cattle grazing in the valley and on the High Plains in summer led to an almost nomadic existence for the early settlers.

Then, with the introduction of super phosphate for enhanced pastures, the dairy industry ourished and the Kiewa Valley became an iconic dairy brand.

Some of the other types of agricultural pursuits that no longer exist are: pigs, tobacco, viticulture, vegetables and timber.

Over the years Tawonga has had a butter factory, a brick works, a bakery, a butcher, a post o ce (still operating}, several halls, a bus company, a taxi service, several garages, the Bogong Hotel, a hospital, a school and a boarding house etc etc.

HISTORY ON THE MOVE: Kiewa Valley Historical Society Inc’s historic milk truck was on show, thanks to Craig and Sheryl Willey helping transport it.

AGRICULTURAL HISTORY: Items used in the tobacco industry (right), which was part of the agricultural landscape for decades, were on show.

MEMORIES: Artefacts from the Bogong Hotel (below) were displayed over the weekend as part of the historical exhibiton.

In 1938, when the SECV began building the Kiewa HydroElectric Scheme, the Tawonga township became a bustling commercial hub which continued for many years.

Later, another major boost to Tawonga’s fortune was

the subdivision of adjacent farming land being subdivided for family homes.

Today, Tawonga is a pretty little rural residential township looking up to the majestic Mt Bogong and straddling the beautiful Kiewa River.

With a growing multigenerational population, the community is keen to improve the quality of the Tawonga experience for all its members and visitors alike.

TDCA is constantly advocating for quality open

SETTLING IN THE UPPER KIEWA VALLEY

THE place name Tawonga is Aboriginal for “the flight through air as of birds or spears”.

The Upper Kiewa Valley was first settled in 1841 by a James Roberts.

He transferred the property to John Routh in 1849, who then passed it onto Thomas Ibbotson in 1854.

The property was named the Tawonga Station and comprised 20,000 acres of lush, fertile land.

A manager named John Eyre was appointed, and his family were associated with the Tawonga Station for nearly 100 years.

Today, this property is situated in the locality of Mongan’s Bridge. It has since been divided into many smaller holdings and the only physical evidence of Tawonga Station is a group of headstones which have survived the passage of time and are now being taken care of by Tom Cooper, upon whose land they now lie.

The three graves are those of Thomas Ibbotson who died in 1858, Elizabeth Eyre who died in 1879 and John Eyre who died in 1904.

The headstones which are surrounded by a pole fence and some trees, can be seen from the Kiewa Valley Highway at Mongan’s Bridge.

During the 1840’s government surveyors mapped the Upper Kiewa Valley and divided the area into the parishes of Tawonga, Mullagong and Mullindolingong.

The early selections listed many family names that still have a presence in the Kiewa Valley today.

In the parish of Tawonga, the earliest listings were: W. Snell in 1872 and J. Briggs in 1873.

In the parish of Mullindolongong the listings were: John Ryder in 1869; Fred Roper in 1870; W. Higginson in 1871; N. Herbert in 1871; Cooper, Maddison and Haig in 1873.

In the parish of Mullagong the listings were: J. Briggs in 1871; G. Barling in 1879; and F. Chow in 1883.

spaces, parks and gardens, community facilities and a streetscape that will encourage visitors to slow down and stop a while.

Events like the 180th celebrations do not just happen and our grateful thanks

go to the TDCA and KVHS members, who did such a wonderful job mounting this very interesting historical display.

Happy 180th birthday Tawonga and best wishes for many more.

CUC Ovens Murray’s first octogenarian graduate

Why register with CUC

Ovens Murray (Wangaratta)?

It's FREE to register and use:

Dedicated study spaces

Dual screen computers

Fast, reliable internet

Printing facilities

Academic support

We are a safe, secure study facility open from 5am to midnight, 7 days a week for Higher Education students.

Find us in Building F - GOTAFE Docker St Campus, Wangaratta.

Discover more or register at cucovensmurray.edu.au

AS CUC Ovens Murray approaches three years of supporting higher education students in the region, the team are thrilled that many of the students that started using their service in 2022 are now graduating.

They also have their first octogenarian graduate, Phillip Johnson who has recently completed his first degree, a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Tasmania.

After retirement, Phillip decided to study for an arts degree, something he had wanted to accomplish for many years, however, the opportunity had not presented itself until recently.

He commenced his studies with the University of New England and then transferred to the University of Tasmania

to complete a Diploma in Family History.

Following this success, he then commenced with a Bachelor of Arts degree, majoring in history.

Phillip completed some of his subjects for his degree through other universities including Deakin, where he studied the Holocaust, Macquarie University studying the first world war and Charles Sturt University studying the English reformation which resulted in the formation of Protestant churches.

All of Phillip’s units were completed online and he regularly accessed the facilities and services of CUC Ovens Murray during his studies.

“There is good support for this type of study, I

recommend people of all ages to investigate options available and begin studying,” Phillip said.

Phillip has just commenced a graduate diploma in history, family history and applied history through the University of New England. He also had an article published in Traces Magazine this month.

The team from CUC look forward to continuing to support Phillip on the next steps in his learning journey.

If you are currently studying a course at any university or higher education institution, you too can register with CUC Ovens Murray and access their free services to support your study.

To find out more visit www.cucovensmurray.edu.au.

The CUC provided me a place to study in the evenings and weekends that was away from the interruptions at home.

Kate Howard Master of Speech Pathology University of Canberra

LEARNING JOURNEY: A bright eyed and bushy tailed Phillip Johnson when he registered with CUC Ovens Murray in 2022.

PROUD GRADUATE: Phillip Johnson graduating from the University of Tasmania with a Bachelor of Arts.

Start your career with high quality practical training

WITH campuses in Wangaratta, Bundalong and Barmah, 1 Stop Training Centre is centrally placed to deliver high quality training.

They take pride in offering and delivering training and assessment in the fields of civil construction plant operations and driving operations, and as a Registered Training Organisation (RTO #46133), 1 Stop has earnt a reputation as a leader in the provision of flexible and innovative services.

These courses, among others, are currently running and can help get you where you want to be.

Certificate III in Civil Construction Plant Operations

The new Certificate III in Civil Construction Plant Operations course will run later in the year.

Build your career as a trade qualified plant operator with this nationally accredited course.

Learn how to safely operate plant equipment such as excavators, backhoes, loaders, skid steers and rollers, as well as working on exciting civil infrastructure projects, White Card and First Aid topics and more in a booming industry.

In this course you will learn how to not only operate heavy machinery

required to be a plant operator, but also how to work safely and understand the workplace specifications.

Truck licence

There is a range of truck driving licence courses from multi combination to light rigid.

All of their truck driving courses take you through every step from basic controls of the vehicle to managing hazardous situations.

Whether you need a licence to drive a smaller truck or a truck with additional trailers, 1 Stop has got you covered.

1 Stop’s goal is to provide students with a safe, fair and supported environment to participate in their training and assessment, and to ensure they are confident and job ready.

If you are currently employed in or want to enter sectors such as civil construction (plant operations), forestry or timber, road transport, driver training and licence endorsement, materials handling, industrial licensing or maritime, 1 Stop Training Centre can help you get the qualifications you need to succeed.

SOUTH

Narelle Tredrea

How long have you lived in the area?

I came here from Canberra 12 months ago. I’m originally from Sydney.

What do you like about living in the area?

The mountains, the community - what’s not to like.

Would you like to see any changes or additions?

A taxi service would be good. I’m sure there are enough people who would use this service.

What do you do, your hobbies and interests?

I am a lawyer who does stand up comedy. I’m a writer and I practice on-line meditation. I love walking around the Mt Beauty Pondage, toasting marshmallows down by the river and swimming as a physio activity.

Where would you take people to showcase the area?

The Mt Beauty Library deck, where else could you sit and read with an amazing view of the lake. There are so many beautiful spots here, lots of great walking tracks.

Johanna + Colin Purser

Where do you live?

We’re from Blaxland in the Blue Mountains.

How often do you visit the area?

This is our first trip to the area. We’re looking forward to going on different walks in the region. We go caravanning around Australia, but we haven’t done enough of it yet: we’re looking forward to our future trips.

What do you do for a living?

J: We’re retired now, but I used to work in aged care.

C: I used to have several jobs over the years.

What are your hobbies and interests?

C: I like gardening; mainly growing vegetables. I also like photography and birdwatching.

J: I like sewing, cooking; especially sourdough lately,

baking and making preserves. We both love to read and going bushwalking.

What do you think makes the area unique?

J: We’re very impressed with the whole region; all the suburbs are so leafy and well looked after. The food is amazing. We love the produce from all the local places like the berry farm and other producers.

C: The native birds in the area are impressive; I took a few native bird photos yesterday.

What would you change about the area?

C: Just leave it as it is. It’s a beautiful place, very tidy and clean. I wouldn’t change anything.

J: The area is so beautiful already, that’s what’s attractive about it.

Lyn Cummins

Where do you live?

I live in Myrtleford.

How long have you lived in the area?

I’ve lived here since 1985, with a break of eight years when we moved to the Northern Territory for my husband’s work.

What do you do for a living?

I am retired, but I used to work in childcare in Myrtleford and Bright and in nursing at Barwidgee Lodge. At the moment, I also volunteer at the Myrtleford Hospital

Community Op Shop.

What are your hobbies and interests?

I like bushwalking, camping and volunteering. What do you think makes the area unique?

The weather: we have all four seasons here and I also like the colours of the seasons as they change. The valleys are so picturesque.

What would you change about the area?

I wouldn’t change anything. I love Myrtleford the way it is.

MYRTLEFORD

TAWONGA

Space, convenience, and privacy

THIS exceptional property, located on approximately 6.44 acres just minutes’ walk from Wangaratta’s vibrant CBD, offers a rare combination of space, convenience, and privacy.

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room offering a cozy retreat.

The master bedroom is well-appointed with built-in robes (BIRs), a split system for comfort, and a ceiling fan.

The additional bedrooms also include ceiling fans and built-in robes, ensuring comfort throughout.

The main bathroom is complete with a vanity, toilet, and shower over bath.

Step outside to discover an impressive decked entertaining area, ideal for gatherings, all overlooking a beautifully established lawn and mature trees that

enhance the peaceful, private outlook.

For those needing extra storage or workspace, the property boasts great shedding, including an enclosed shed measuring 11.9m x 7.7m, as well as an open bay shed (11.8m x 7.8m).

With its tranquil setting and proximity to the Wangaratta CBD, this property offers a unique opportunity to secure a slice of countryside living without compromising on convenience.

Contact Hugh Amery at Harcourts Wangaratta today.

160kg whopper sees Richardson family win Tawonga pumpkin title

By JULIETTE ODDOUX, Tawonga Primary School teacher

TAWONGA Primary

School’s rst giant pumpkin competition had a very successful conclusion last Friday evening.

Excitement had been building among students during the day as pumpkins kept appearing in the school yard.

Approximately 50 to 60 people attended the evening event and it was great to see people from the wider community drop by to have a look.

There were 19 entries, 12 of them quite large, and three of them too big for the scales.

All but the three biggest had been pre-weighed on the Farm to Fork butchery scales before the night and with the remaining three some very helpful parents assisted a er school by li ing the pumpkins with a tarp and identifying the order of heaviest to least heavy.

Year 6 judges Sam Svarc and Harry Weaver were busy judging the prettiest pumpkin while spectators were able to write down their best guess of the weight of the pumpkin grown on the school grounds. There were also slices

made by the our students in their cooking class for spectators to enjoy.

The winner of the prettiest pumpkin was Dianne Rogers and the best weight guess of the school pumpkin at 64.46Kg was John Stripeikis who guessed 65Kg.

Tony Gentile came in 4th place with a big 80kg pumpkin.

The nal three entries were weighed with the help of Gentile Steel’s truck and crane.

Surprisingly, the order of the initial guestimate based on size of the pumpkin3rd Col Clewitt, 2nd the Richardson family and 1st Deb Clewitt - altered when they were weighed, with Deb Clewitt 3rd (131kgs), Cole Clewitt 2nd (136kgs) and the Richardson family’ in rst with a whopping 160kgs pumpkin.

There was a lot of laughter, good will and swapping of ribbons and Brenton Richardson was very happy to receive the meat tray, generously donated by Farm to Fork butchery.

When asked what his secret was, Brenton responded with a short “good soil and lots of water”.

When pressed further, he said he wasn’t giving away any secrets.

PUMPKIN DELIGHT: In fourth place with their pumpkin were the Gentile family (from le , back) Jason, Rosa and Tony Gentile; (front, from le ) Harry Weaver, Tommy and Lucy Gentile.

BIGGEST OF THEM ALL: THE RICHARDSONSLYLA, BRENTON AND MILLAR - WERE DELIGHTED THAT THEIR 160KG PUMPKIN WON THE TITLE OF TAWONGA’S HEAVIEST PUMPKIN.

PUMPKIN JOY: Tawonga Primary School students with the entries to their giant pumpkin contest.

BIG EFFORT: Deb and Col Clewitt took out second the third placing.

WEIGHING IN: Everyone was interested to see what the punpkin weighed.

HOME GROWN: Prep student Harriet Dowel with one of the pumpkins grown at the school.

ALPINE Classifi ed Information

Notice of Intention to Apply for a New Licence to Take and Use Groundwater GMW Reference No: BGW0063-25

This is Alpine Shire Council’s notice for an application of a new Licence to Take and Use Groundwater for a maximum volume of 20.0ML/ Year at Horseshoe Circle DINNER PLAIN VIC 3898. Refer to Vic Roads Map 65 E2.

The volume sought in this application is 20.0ML/ Year. We intend to extract groundwater from an existing bore. The water will be used for the purpose of: Commercial

To be used on lands described as:

Mansfield Courier

Phone: (03) 5723 0101

email: classifieds@nemedia.com.au

Booking deadline:

12noon Monday prior to print.

The Chronicle

Phone: (03) 5723 0101

email: classifieds@nemedia.com.au

Booking deadline:

2pm business day prior to print.

The Euroa Gazette

Phone: (03) 5723 0101

email: classifieds@nemedia.com.au

Booking deadline:

3pm Monday prior to print.

North East Tourist News

Phone: (03) 5723 0100

email: sales@nemedia.com.au

Phone for quarterly booking deadline

North East Farmer

Phone: (03) 5723 0100

email: nefarmer@nemedia.com.au

Booking deadline: Second Friday of month

> CAR ADVERTISERS

Private vendors of motor cars advertised for sale must include in their advertisement

• Cash price of motor car

• If car is registered, registration number

• If unregistered, the engine number

> PHOTOGRAPHS

All photographs appearing in this issue that are taken by our photographers are available as reprints.

> FOUND ADVERTISEMENTS

All found advertisements are published free.

Simply provide the details of your find for publication.

> PERSONAL ADVERTISERS

• All personal photos submitted for printing in this issue must be collected within the next 4 weeks.

• All engagement and marriage notices must carry the signatures of BOTH parties, if under 18 the parents’ signatures as well.

• Birth notices require signatures

> ADDITIONS

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> INTERNET

In lodging an advertisement with us you agree that we may publish the advertisement on our website. The general terms and condition that apply to publication apply also to publication of material on our website.

Any person able to demonstrate that their interests will be affected by the transfer of this Licence including any intended Groundwater use, is invited to make a formal submission setting out the nature of the impact within 14 days of receipt of this written notification.

To make a submission please read the information available to download from https:// www.g-mwater.com.au/customer-servicesresources/forms/make-a-submission-form. Refer to the Groundwater section or contact GMW to arrange a copy to be posted to you. Submissions must be lodged using the GMW template available by either mail or email to, licensingadmin@gmwater.com.au or PO Box 165, TATURA VIC 3616.

MYRTLEFORD RECREATION RESERVE

Notice is given of a PUBLIC MEETING to be held on Wednesday, April 30, 2025 commencing at 7pm.

The purpose of the meeting is to nominate no less than three (3) or more than nine (9) persons as the Committee of Management for the Myrtleford Recreation Reserve for a term of three years. The current committee’s term will expire on May 1, 2025. All positions will be declared open and nominations will be accepted prior to or on the night. Nominations from women, Aboriginal people, people with disabilities, young people and people from culturally diverse backgrounds are encouraged. Further information, nomination forms and nominee declaration forms may be obtained by contacting your local Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action o ce or at the meeting. For further enquiries, please contact the Secretary Amanda Shepherd on 0437 104 046.

MUST SELL

2007 NISSAN PATROL Ti Manual, approx. 190k on the clock, includes roof rack and awning, selling due to moving interstate, open to negotiation, pick up Wangaratta, (1YP8XF).

$25,000

Ph 0434 590 566

2014 Ford Ranger Wildtrack, Wangaratta, 262,000km, RWC, reg till July (1VR2GV), 2 keys, light bar, electric seats, blue tooth, R cam, service history, local, $20,900 ONO. Call Steve 0402 222 634.

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FREE RANGE HENS

ISA Brown Pullets, POL $35ea.

Pick upWang to Bright Becky & Hugh (03) 5798 1868 freerangehens.com.au

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MAZDA 2023 CX3 auto hatch, reg CHC333, one owner, immaculate condition, service books,11,875kms,RWC, $27,750 REDUCED PRICE $26,950. Phone Maxwell.K.Batey on 0419 547 308.

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BRAND NEW BOAT PACKAGE, Stacer 379 Proline boat, Bimini Boat Cover, Honda 15 HP outboard, 7 Year warranty Stacer trailer, 12 months rego, Safety Gear, $11,000. Ph 0429 082 292.

More Aussie gold for Lachlan, as he fundraises for European campaign

BRIGHT teenage cyclist

Lachlan Stewart has returned with four gold and two bronze medals a er an impressive showing at the 2025 AusCycling Junior Track National Championships at Anna Meares Velodrome in Brisbane last week.

Lachlan was a member of Victoria’s gold winning U17 Boys Team Pursuit team, and also collected individual gold and national titles in the U17 Boys Individual Pursuit, U17 Boys Points Race and U17 Boys Elimination Race.

He also won bronze in the U17 Boys Scratch Race and U17 Boys Keirin.

The performances consolidate an upward trajectory for the talented Alpine Cycling Club member, who also has national titles in road and gravel disciplines.

And it also adds momentum to his aspirations to be a pro road cyclist.

He is currently seeking funding/sponsorship to compete in Europe at an international level in July this year.

Victorian honour for Lachlan

AT the same BRIGHT teenage cyclist Lachlan Stewart has being recognised as one of the country’s rising stars at the Victorian School Sports Awards.

The Bright P-12 College student was the recipient of an Outstanding Sporting Achievement Award at last Wednesday’s presentation ceremony at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

The award recognised Lachlan’s achievements as one of Australia’s top riders in the Under 17 male category - having earned state and national titles across road, track, MTB and gravel racing last year - as well as an active leader at Bright P-12 College.

His achievements include National Gravel Champion, National Track Madison Champion and National Road Time Trial Champion.

Lachlan has set up a gofundme page and is hoping to raise $10,000 to race a ve week period in July/ August 2025 at an international racing camp in Belgium and the Netherlands.

“I hope to compete in the Tour de junior Achterveld 2126 of July in the Netherlands, and the Tour of Assen (27 July1 August) which is the one of the biggest junior tours in the world for Under 17 riders,” he said.

logistics of living and racing in a foreign country as a junior.”

Lachlan said the races and tours in Belgium and the Netherlands are regarded as the biggest and best in Europe, if not the world.

“Many scouts from professional teams closely watch these Under 17 events to sign young riders for the following year,” he said.

“These camps help support international riders with the

TANIA’S IMPRESSIVE HAUL OF 10 GOLD MEDALS AT NATIONAL GAMES

MT BEAUTY ambulance community o cer, Tania Northey, recently returned from Hobart a er achieving outstanding success representing Ambulance Victoria in swimming at the Australasian Police & Emergency Services Games.

Tania, a dedicated swimmer who regularly trains at the Mt Beauty Swimming Pool, brought home an impressive 10 individual gold medals and two relay bronze medals where she teamed with other Victorian emergency service workers from Water Police, Border Force, SES and CFA.

Her most rewarding result was winning gold in her rst-ever open water competition, a 1500 metre swim in Tiger Head Bay.

“I’m a pool swimmer, used to following a black line and happiest when I have a lane to myself, so I was a little nervous about swimming in the ocean amongst a crowd, but I loved it,” Tania said.

The Australasian Police & Emergency Services Games is a 10-day competition which includes representatives from all Australian states and territories, as well as competitors from New Zealand and the Cook Islands.

This year, 2200 competitors contested 60 sports.

The games promote health and wellbeing amongst emergency services workers, in the spirit of friendly competition.

Supporting charity partners are RUOK and Speak Up! Stay ChatTY.

Tania’s next major swimming goal is to represent Australia at the World Police & Fire Games which will be held in Perth in March 2027.

She would like to thank her Mt Beauty morning lap swimming buddies for their friendship and encouragement and express her gratitude for the fantastic facility and the dedicated sta at the Mt Beauty Swimming Pool, for without them, she says, her achievements would not have been possible.

To support Lachlan’s cause visit https://www.gofundme. com/f/taking-on-the-cyclingworld-racing-in-europein-2025

Wandi ready for Saturday’s colourful community event

WANDILIGONG is expected to play host to hundreds of people of all ages this Saturday morning for Alpine Shire Council’s annual ‘Colour Fun Run’ . The free event is being held at Alpine Park, with attendees of all ages and abilities welcome to run or walk the the picturesque Wandi Trail, covering a distance of 3.5kms.

Participants can gather near the grandstand at Alpine Park and warm-up at 9:15am, before the Colour Fun Run begins at 9:30am. Attendees are encouraged to wear some white or pale coloured clothes so they can celebrate the event in all its multi-coloured magni cence. From 11:30am, Al’s Skate Co will also be holding a skateboarding workshop at the Bright Skate Park. This is a drug, alcohol and smoke-free event.

To nd out more info and sign up, go to https://engage. alpineshire.vic.gov.au/ community-hubs/recoveryhub/colour-fun-run-2025. Prams and wheelchairs will be welcome on the day, however, bikes, scooters, skateboards and dogs are not permitted in the Colour Fun Run in order to keep the event safe for all participants.

MEDAL HAUL: Tawonga swimmer Tania Northey won 10 gold medals at the recent Australasian Police & Emergency Services Games.

AUSSIE GOLD: Bright cyclist Lachlan Stewart won more national titles last week and is currently fundraising to race in Europe this year in a bid to become a professional racer.

WINNERS AND LOSERS

GOALS: TARRAWINGEE: N. Gorman 3, A. Cook 3, W. Creed 3, W. Phillips 2, S. Piper 2, S. Peters 1, O. Sharp 1, C. Chamberlain 1, Z. Howard 1. Benalla All Blacks FNC Seniors: M. Ryan 4, D. Broughton 1, C. Drury 1, D. Sinclair 1. BEST: TARRAWINGEE: Z. Howard, S. Piper, A. Cook, W. Creed, H. Amery, A. Amery. BENALLA ALL BLACKS: D. Button, B. Linke, M. Ryan, J. Walker, C. O Donnell, F. Weeks.

GRETA 4.5 4.8 9.9 11.11.77

BRIGHT 2.1 4.6 8.8 12.14.86

GOALS: GRETA: C. Crawford 2, B. Newbold 1, T. Arrowsmith 1, B. Pearson 1, L. Kennett 1, J. Kelly 1, F. Judd 1, J. McClounan 1, J. Bell 1, T. Baker 1. BRIGHT: C. Thomason 5, L. Quirk 2, W. Shem 1, R. Bacon 1, M. Kinthari 1, A. Dalbosco 1, J. Crawley 1. BEST: GRETA: M. Wettern, B. Hooper, L. Kennett, J. Bell, J. Kelly, P. Fruzynski. BRIGHT: W. Shem, J. Crawley, R. Arguello, A. Dalbosco, C. Thomason.

*Ladder correct at time of print from Ovens and King website.

A GRADE:

Tarrawingee 54 def Benalla All Blacks 39 Greta 23 def by Bright 30 Milawa 61 def North Wangaratta 16 Whorouly 52 def Bonnie Doon 40 Goorambat 40 def King Valley 20

B GRADE: Tarrawingee 59 def Benalla All Blacks 22 Greta 42 def by Bright 43; Whorouly 44 def Bonnie Doon 43 Milawa 48 def Nth Wang 25; Goorambat 39 def King Valley 17

B RESERVE: Tarrawingee 33 def Benall All Blacks 26 Whorouly 44 def Bonnie Doon 38; Greta 30 def by Bright 43 Milawa 55 def Nth Wang 24; Goorambat 42 def King Valley 19

C GRADE: Tarrawingee 22 def by Benalla All Blacks 26 Greta 38 def Bright 35; Whorouly 7 def by Bonnie Doon 43 Milawa 47 def Nth Wang 14; Goorambat 11 def by King Valley 76

�� & UNDER: Tarrawingee 15 def by Benalla All Blacks 35 Whorouly 15 def by Bonnie Doon 50; Greta 13 def by Bright 28 Milawa 54 def Nth Wang 8; Goorambat 5 def by King Valley 53

ROUND � SATURDAY, APRIL �

MILAWA vs GRETA

BRIGHT vs WHOROULY

NTH WANGARATTA vs BONNIE DOON

KING VALLEY vs TARRAWINGEE

MOYHU vs GOORAMBAT

BENALLA ALL BLACKS � Bye

MILAWA 3.1 8.1 114.4 15.10.100

NTH WANGARATTA 3.3 4.5 5.6 8.7.55

GOALS: GOALS: Milawa: B. Kearns 4, J. Radovanovic 3, J. Baker-Swain 2, A. Bihun 2, H. Allan 2, A. Law 2. NORTH WANGARATTA: T. Nanson 3, J. Brown 1, M. Curtis 1, L. McDonell 1, B. Lane-Gee 1, C. Smith 1. BEST: MILAWA: B. Kearns, J. Radovanovic, A. Law, H. Kebede, A. Bihun, K. Collisson NORTH WANGARATTA: M. Curtis, B. Kingston, J. Nanson, B. Raggett, D. Killen, C. Arbuckle.

GOORAMBAT 4.0 5.3 11.6

GOALS: GOORAMBAT: KING VALLEY: S. Bettio 1, T. Curren 1, O. Day 1, D. Young 1, L. Toohey 1, H. Sims 1. BEST: GOORAMBAT: KING VALLEY: T. Curren, R. Wood, D. Browne, B. Collihole, J. Toy, S. Evans.

GOALS: WHOROULY: M. Newton 6, A. Ankers 4, J. Smith 2. BONNIE DOON: C. Azzopardi 1, C. Turner 1, Z. Tanner 1. BEST: WHOROULY: M. Scott, A. Ankers, E. Woolford, M. Newton, J. Smith, C. Wood. BONNIE DOON: l. Berriman, G. Murray, P. Cairns, J. Curtin, P. Smith, K. Curran.

D. Cutrona, B. Schulz-Dahlenburg, A. Knights. Whorouly 5.9 (39) Bonnie Doon 7.13 (55) GOALS: Whorouly: J. Pethybridge 2, B. Harrington 2, M. Bramich 1. Bonnie Doon: C. Houghton 3, T. Leiman 2, J. Kirley 1, L. Pinder 1. BEST: Whorouly: M. Harris, M. Vescio, S. Piazza, B. Harrington, K. Fitzpatrick, J. Morey. Bonnie Doon: T. Leiman, C. Houghton, L. Jenkins, A. Brkljacic, J. Octigan, F. Cameron. Greta 16.7 (103) Bright 6.6 (42)

BEST: Greta: D.

Barnes, D. Cleal. Benalla All Blacks: A. Amos, J. Kotvas, K. Glass, R. Mihan, B. Marlborough, H. Ellis

Savoy cause a Heart-attack

By NATHAN DE VRIES

MYRTLEFORD proved they have the firepower up forward to make other AWFA teams nervous after a crushing victory in the division one men’s competition over the weekend.

Taking to Willow Park on Saturday evening, Savoy’s senior men hammered Wodonga Heart to the tune of 9-0.

Matt Richardson was impossible to keep out, finding the back of the net five times before being taken off to rest and allow others some game time.

Senior coach Jayden Vescio said it was a strong message to the competition.

“We had a bit of a shuffle, we had three or four out on the week-

end, but the deeper squad we called upon was good,” he said.

“We set the tone early, ‘Richo’ [Matt Richardson] got on the scoresheet nice and early a couple of times, and it was pretty oneway traffic after that.

“Richo scored the first five goals of the game, we took him off with 15 minutes to go to have a look at a few other players.

“Matt Park played his first minutes in the seniors for the year and found the net after four or five minutes, that was really pleasing.

“Will Keenan, Scott Peggie and Azia Feltrin all scored singles as well.

“It was one of those games where you could drop to the other team’s standard but I don’t think we did that.

“We might’ve done it for 10, 15 minutes when we were trying to force the ball a little bit, but outside of that it was a pretty complete performance.”

The senior men next face Wangaratta City in a midweek FA Cup fixture, before facing Twin City Wanderers on the weekend.

The division one women also tasted success over Heart, taking the win 2-0.

Co-coach Tom Scott said it was the definition of a whole-team performance.

“We were able to withstand an early attack by Heart in the first half, as Alessia [Colanzi] and Gabby [Paglia] dominated, while simultaneously, we created plenty of opportunities in front of goal during the but were

unlucky not to break the Hearts’ keeper’s defence,” he said.

“Going into the second half, the girls were focused on getting the win and controlled all areas of the ground.

“Our first goal came from Amber [Howell attacking down the right side of the field, cutting in towards goal and winning a penalty, which was taken and completed by Sienna Alam.

“Eventually Georgia [Mahoney] secured the brace after a midfield possession from Colette [Suter].

“It was excellent to see each player contribute to the win and earn some reward for their efforts over the past month.”

The senior women have the bye this weekend.

Autumn golf in full swing

MYRTLEFORD GOLF CLUB

SATURDAY, 29 March

MYRTLEFRORD BAKEHOUSE

STABLEFORD & SUPER & AMCR 71

A Grade Winner: Jim Martin (14) 35 pts. A Grade Runner Up: Brad Carroll (7) 34 pts c/b.

Super 6 Winner Jim Martin (14)

14 pts. Super 6 Runner Up: Damien Rossato (11) 11 pts c/b.

Ball Winners: G Browne 34, D Rossato 32, A McKarral 32.

Foodworks NTPs - 1st: Noel Grant, 4th 2nd shot: Jim Martin, 8th: Brad Carroll, 14th: Damien Rossato, 16th: Zac Cunneen.

Matthews Cleaning Encouragement Award: Craig Shewell 24 pts. Raffle Winner: Zac Cunneen.

Thursday, 27 March

Myrtleford Bakehouse Stableford

AMCR 73

A Grade Winner: Judy Bynon (19) 36c/b. A Grade Runner Up: Helen Mummery (30) 36pts.

Ball Winners: Marg Curtis, Kerry Chapman, Sandra Piazza.

Foodworks NTPs - 2/4th: Barb Welch, 8th: Kerry Newton, 14th: Robyn Ternes.

Tuesday, 25 March

Myrtleford Bakehouse Stableford

AMCR 73

A Grade Winner - Men: Jim Martin (12) 39pts. A Grade Runner Up – Men: Colin Walker (25) 38pts.

A Grade Winner – Ladies: Heather Street (40) 40pts. A Grade Runner Up – Ladies: Lesley Browne (33) 37c/b. Ball Winners – Men: David Cummins, Andrew Roseby, Tony Chapman, William Slade, Jeffrey Ramsdale.

Ball Winners – Ladies: Helen Mummery, Jan Roseby, Carolyn Prowse, Judy Bynon, Faye McLees. 9 Hole Winner: Robyn Ternes (18) 17pts. 9 Hole Runner Up: Marg Fitridge (33) 15pts.

NTPs - 1st: David Cummins, 2/4th: Robyn Ternes, Steve Grimes, 8th: Fox O’Donohue, 14th: Judy Bynon, George Browne, 16th: Peter Stewart.

MOUNT BEAUTY GOLF CLUB

THE front nine at the Mount Beauty Golf Club was played by the Ladies on Wednesday, 19 March, and was won by Ute Svoboda with 19 points from Ruth Rynehart with 18 points.

NTP (second shot) on the seventh was Lynda Barter.

The ladies played the 18 holes on Saturday, 22 March which was won by Gill Harrowfield with 39 points from Lynda Barter with 37 points.

NTP (second shot) on the 18th was Helen Whittaker.

The second round of the Men’s Club Championships was played on Saturday 22 March which was won by one of our lady visitors in Amy Van De Den with a net 67 from Victor Selway with net 69.

Victor shot one under par for his net 69 - Amy played well as she is fairly new to the sport and was aided by her 54 handicap, but she lost 17.5 off her handicap for her efforts.

Her friend Tash Callewaert, also new to the sport, came in with a net 70 along with Stuie Jelbart.

Sam Perry and Peter Johns also got a ball with their net 71s.

NTP on the seventh, along with the Tatts Ticket from the Tawonga South Newsagency & Post Office, was Rick Biesboer.

The ninth was Peter Johns, the 17th was Stephen Short, with Ron Gallagher taking the money on the 18th.

It was a great Monday game with Andrew Cook winning on a countback with 40 points.

A roaring 23 points on the back nine will get it done most days - a late birdie on 16 gave Andrew four points and he finished off strong to take the Monday win.

Just missing out again, Victor Selway shot a 71 and 40 points on the back of his Saturday’s second placing behind a 54 handicapper.

There is no doubt it is a great game golf - people of all abilities can compete against each other.

Brian Henning played well for 37 points and again Sam Bakes shot 68 for 37 points (with a ball OOB on five).

Luke, the pro from Thurgoona also shot another 68 for 36 points (and his handicap went out .2 - tough game).

Wednesday, 26 March was the front nine for the men which was won by Brian Henning with 20 points from Trevor English with 19 points.

A total of 18 points was enough for Craig Docherty to secure a ball while 17 points also got Ron Gallagher a ball.

NTP on the seventh was Trevor English while the club kept the ball for the ninth.

A break from the blue tees and the stress of the Championships, the men played a two ball multiplier stableford round on Saturday, 29 March which was won by Roger Church and Ron Gallagher.

The duo finished with a score of 74 points (72 is a handicap par round for this format) from Don Mason and Allan Retallick with 73 points.

The next team up was Stuie Jelbart and Neil Tappe.

NTP on the seventh, along with the

Tatts Ticket from the Tawonga South Newsagency & Post Office, was Victor Selway, while the ninth was also Victor. The 17th was Dave Browning and the club kept the money on the 18th.

Better individual scores on the day were Roger Church and Ron Gallagher who both had 37 points.

Allan Retallick, Don Mason, Victor Selway, Stuie Jelbart and Brian Henning all had 36 points each.

BRIGHT COUNTRY GOLF CLUB

DID you know, the game of golf is strongly tied to Scotland?

I’m sure you knew this, but in 1457 King James II banned the practise of playing golf as it interfered with archery practice, then a crucial skill for national defence.

In 1502 King James IV lifted the ban and became a golfer himself, further solidifying the game’s popularity. Enough of this week’s history lesson, it’s time for the rundown of golf in Bright this week.

Monday, 24th of March was an all gender veteran’s golf, and much to everyone’s surprise, it was a stroke round.

A group of 16 players felt the need to torment themselves playing

stroke, and no one played under their handicaps.

Winners: Mark Stephenson, 6 H/C nett 73, and in second place Denis Hayes, 26 H/C nett 74 on a countback.

Ball winners: Ross Heydon nett 74, Ian Browne nett 75 C/B, Colin Richardson nett 75 C/B, Mick Dunne nett 75.

NTPs - 3rd: Ian Browne, 6th: Mark Stephenson, 11th; Kevin Reed, 16th: Robert Taylor.

Wednesday, 26 March, Ladies Maggio Cup Stableford competition.

The scoring was tough, and the results are as follows:

Winner: Carol Burgess playing off a 12 handicap, 34 points and in second place, Robyn McGrath 16 handicap, 32 points on a countback.

Ball winners: Fran Bentley 32 points, Tina Cook 30 points on a countback.

NTPs - 3rd: Tina Cook, 6th: Carol Burgess, 11th: Fran Bentley, 16th: Carol Burgess.

Thursday, 27 March, men’s Stableford competition.

A group of 40 golfers teed off in perfect conditions, and for a change, six players played under their handicaps.

Winners: Robert Taylor 9 H/C a fine 40 points, Robert Davey 22 H/C 39 points, Ian McIntyre 20 H/C 37 points C/B, Nifty Nev Blewitt 22 H/C 37 points C/B, Butch Thomas 25 H/C 37 points C/B, Andy Miller 15 H/C 37 points.

Ball winners: Beau Whitely 36 Pts C/B, Buffalo Bill Kelty 36 points C/B Peter McGrath 36 points, Troy Stevens 35 points C/B, Steve O’Rielly 35 points, Peter Dredge 34 points C/B, Rod Brown 34 points C/B, and Mick Dunne 34 points.

NTPs - 3rd: Andy Armstrong, 6th: Johnnie Ocean, 11th: Mark Stephenson, 16th: Graham Badrock. Chicken winner was Crusty Carlisle with 20 points, and the NAGA went to Graham ‘The Laird from Osborne Flat’ McElvenny with a respectable 24 points.

Friday, 28 March, ladies nine-hole stableford competition.

The ladies are enjoying their time, and the results were as follows.

Winner: Giselle Braithwaite 15 points C/B and in second place, Faye McLees 15 points C/B.

NTP on the sixth hole was Faye McLees.

Saturday, 29 March, all gender two person Ambrose.

A field of 58 players, in teams of two played in wet and trying conditions, with 22 teams playing under their handicaps, and here there are.

Phil Bardsley-Smith and David Kelly nett 63, Darren Stanton and Craig Hobson nett 65 C/B, Darcy Beecher and Mitch Banks nett 65. Ball winners: Tina and Andy Cook nett 65.6, Chris Oswin and Greg Walshy Walsh 65.75 nett, Taine Pearse and Guy Packham nett 66.5, Jason Fillippi and Shaun Paul nett 67.5 C/B, and finally Crusty Carlisle and Mo O’Shea nett 67.5.

NTPs - 3rd: Johnnie Ocean, 6th: jackpot, 11th: Peter Dredge, 16th: John O’Shea.

The NAGA for the day went to a couple of Bright’s finest, Panga and Butch nett 74.5.

The Bright Golf Guru interesting fact about golf: legend says it all began in 1952 in St Andrews back when golf courses ranged from seven to 13 to 22 holes.

Tradition was that you took a ‘fifth’ bottle of scotch around the course with you during play.

A bottle of scotch is roughly, 18 small glasses worth (give or take) and after every hole, it was custom to take a tipple.

So, then it was settled - 18 tipples of scotch for 18 holes of golf.

senior men’s side handed Wodonga Heart a crushing 9-0 result. PHOTO: Melissa Beattie

Alpe de Buffalo is almost here

ONE of the premier junior racing events on the calendar comes to the region next week, with the Alpe de Bu alo returning from April 12-13.

Round one of the AusCycling Victorian Junior Road Series and Run over two days with three exciting stages, it o ers a wonderful opportunity for junior road riders to challenge their skills.

The course is challenging but accessible to the junior riders, with three stages over two days.

Stage one consists of 1.3km criterium circuit around Pioneer Park in Bright on Saturday, 12 April, before stage two takes riders on and out-and-back time trial down Back Germantown Road.

The event culminates in the Junior Hillclimb Championship up Mount Bu alo on Sunday, with riders challenged by the steep ascent, set to nish at the historic mount Bu alo Chalet.

“The Alpe de Bu alo is an important race because it a grass roots event that gives junior riders access to try road racing in a safe but challenging environment,” a spokesperson for the Alpine Cycling Club said.

ACCOUNTING Certified Practising Accountants – C.P.A. Accounting for small businesses and individuals.

4-1a Camp Street, Bright Phone: 5755 5105 E enquiries@brightaccounting.com.au

(formerly CRM Business Advisers) Certified Practising Accountants

Myrtleford, 1-7 Albert Street Phone: 5752 2288

“This junior Victorian series has been the beginning of many menced for the rst time in 2009 as the State Junior Mountain Climbing Championships, and it was elevated to National Championship status in 2010.

the event had reached the pinnacle in three short years, and was now acting as a genuine springboard for the juniors stepping into the senior ranks.

road event in the country.

A er lobbying Cycling Australia the Under 19’s event became a selection race for the Junior World Championships.

The event continued to grow in popularity with entry numbers nearing 200 competitors from all over Australia.

Cycling Victoria sadly decided to relinquish the National Championship status for the event but it remains a popular and important event in the junior road racing calendar.

The 2025 Alpe de Bu alo runs from April 12-13 – for more infor

Bright, 3 Ireland Street Phone: 5755 1327 www.belmores.com.au

PAYNTER & ASSOCIATES

the Lions forward in their statement win over Bonnie Doon on the weekend.

Chartered Accountants and Business Advisors

25 Clyde Street Myrtleford Phone: 5751 1995

Email admin@paynterassoc.com.au www.paynterandassociates.com.au

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■ From back page

The Lions were slow o the mark, letting the Bombers take a 9-17 lead into the rst break, but the ght was on.

A second quarter surge saw the Lions defend hard and transition the ball down the court cleanly, conceding only seven goals while scoring 13 of their own.

Whorouly kept the pressure on

through the second half, extending their lead and working hard defensively to run out winners by 12 goals.

The defensive unit of Sally Wood, Ebony Allen and Laura Keighran were strong and turned the ball over well, while Abbey Forest was dominant under the post, shooting 38 goals from 47 shots.

Midcourt recruit Sally Sharp was dynamic in her rst o cial

match for the Lions, moving the ball well outside the ring.

In other matches, the Lions fought hard against the talented youth squads from Bonnie Doon, with both the under 15s (15-50) and under 17s (7-43) downed by the Bombers.

The B reserve side started their season with a 44-38 win, while the B grade game nished in a

thrilling 44-43 result going the way of the Lions.

Whorouly hits the road for the rst time this season, heading up the mountain to take on Bright. It will be a massive match for all squads, particularly the senior football and A grade netball squads, with Bright coming o statements wins over Greta in both grades.

& SOLICITORS 86 Standish Street, Myrtleford. Email: amanda@tonerandmaylegal.com.au or jess@tonerandmaylegal.com.au

Promote your service here!

Phone Jenny on 57313305 or email jking@nemedia.com.au

READY TO CLIMB: The 2025 Alpe de Bu alo will take riders up the scenic road to the Mount Bu alo Chalet.

DRIVING FORCE: Jessie Smith sends

PHOTOS: Nathan de Vries

Alwis sweeps A grade awards

LAST Monday night saw the senior cricket community come together and celebrate the 2024/25 WDCA cricket season.

Ovens Valley United’s Geeth Alwis almost cleanswept the entire A grade category, taking home the batting and bowling aggregate and average awards, alongside Player of the Year gongs in PlayHQ points and umpire votes.

Due to the close nature of the B grade umpire vote count, the award winner will be announced at a later date.

Full list of award winners

A grade Player of the Year – Points: Geeth Alwis, Ovens Valley United (1035 points).

Chronicle Trophy – Umpire Votes: Geeth Alwis, Ovens Valley United (16 votes).

Batting – Average: Geeth Alwis, Ovens Valley United

(69.50 average).

Batting – Aggregate: Geeth Alwis, Ovens Valley United (695 runs).

Bowling – Average: Geeth Alwis, Ovens Valley United (8.74 average).

Bowling – Aggregate: Geeth Alwis, Ovens Valley United and Angus Heslin, Yarrawonga Mulwala (31 wickets).

Golden Gloves: Reid Clarke, Yarrawonga Mulwala (17 catches, 3 stumpings).

A reserve Player of the Year – Points: Mark O’Loughlan, Delatite (692 points).

Player of the Year – Umpire Votes: Fraser Smart, Yarrawonga Mulwala (20 votes).

Batting – Average: Justin Solimo, City Colts (50.80 average).

Batting – Aggregate: Mark O’Loughlan, Delatite (572 runs).

Bowling – Average: Mark Drage, Rovers United Bruck (11.10 average).

Bowling – Aggregate: Will Graham, Rovers United Bruck (29 wickets).

Golden Gloves: Connor Dennis, Rovers United Bruck (15 catches, 0 stumpings).

B grade

Player of the Year – Points: Jeremy Ackroyd, Rovers United Bruck (596 points).

Chronicle Trophy – Umpire Votes: pending.

Batting – Average: Jeremy Ackroyd, Rovers United Bruck (58.00 average).

Batting – Aggregate: Andrew Balfour, Rovers United Bruck (438 runs).

Bowling – Average: Kurt Schmidt, Rutherglen United (5.60 average).

Bowling – Aggregate: Brendan Duncombe, Benalla Bushrangers (31 wickets).

Golden Gloves: Nathan de Vries, Milawa (26 catches, 0 stumpings).

C grade

Player of the Year – Points: Jordan Smith, Benalla Bushrangers (710 points).

Chronicle Trophy – Umpire Votes: Simon O’Brien, Greta (15 votes).

Batting – Average: Jordan Smith, Benalla Bushrangers (74.67 average).

Batting – Aggregate: Chris Nuck, Beechworth Wanderers (481 runs).

Bowling – Average: Ryan Niklaus, Beechworth Wanderers (6.45 average).

Bowling – Aggregate: Nicholas Jacobs, Benalla Bushrangers (27 wickets).

Golden Gloves: Damian Leeburn, Yarrawonga Mulwala (14 catches, 5 stumpings).

Best Player at Melbourne Country Week: Paddy McNamara, Rovers United Bruck and Cooper Thomason, Ovens Valley United (16 votes). Best Young Player in B/C Grade: Darcy Hargreaves, Yarrawonga Mulwala. A Grade Rising Star: Jed Marek, City Colts. Best U/21 A Grade Player: Gregor Fraser, Ovens Valley United.

Umpire of the Year: Len Holden.

Volunteer of the Year: Nic Bonwick, Wangaratta Magpies.

Spirit of Cricket Team Award: Beechworth Wanderers A grade.

OVER 150 people ocked to the Wangaratta Turf Club last Wednesday night to celebrate the junior cricket season, with stars in every age group awarded for their e orts.

Full list of award winners

Under 16

Batting – Average: Reid McNamara, Rovers United Bruck (62.40 average).

Batting – Aggregate: Benjamin McMasters, Ovens Valley United (314 runs).

Bowling – Average: Alasdair Brett, City Colts (8.73 average).

Bowling – Aggregate: Nixen Martin, Delatite (13 wickets).

Fielding: Lenny Sims, Wangaratta Magpies (11 catches, 0 run outs).

Golden Gloves: Lucas Ham, Benalla Bushrangers (8 catches, 6 stumpings).

Champion Player: Reid McNamara, Rovers United Bruck (422 points).

Under 14

Batting – Average: Taylor Thomson (64.75 average).

Batting – Aggregate: Gus Marek, City Colts (262 runs).

Bowling – Average: Xavier

De Fazio, Benalla Bushrang ers (5.00 average).

Bowling – Aggregate: Xa vier De Fazio, Benalla Bush rangers (15 wickets).

Fielding: Harry Dean, Wan garatta Magpies (9 catches, 1 run out).

Golden Gloves: Mitch Mc Masters, Ovens Valley United (8 catches, 4 stumpings).

Female Cricketer of the Year: Marianne Edwards, Beechworth Wanderers (89 points).

Champion Player: Taylor Thomson, Beechworth Wan derers (409 points).

Under 14 All Girls Cricket League

Batting – Aggregate: Mahl ee Hartwig, Rovers United Bruck (119 runs).

Bowling – Aggregate: Ella Tucker, City Colts (14 wick ets).

Under 12 – Blue

Batting – Average: Judd Campbell, Rovers United Bruck (106.00 average).

Batting – Aggregate: Judd Campbell, Rovers United Bruck (318 runs).

Bowling – Average: Jack Spring, City Colts (5.25 average).

ris, Ovens Valley United (3 catches, 1 stumping).

wala (133.67 average).

Batting – Aggregate: Benji Wollington, Yarrawonga Mulwala (469 runs).

Bowling – Average: Edward Clancy, Benalla Bushrangers (5.73 average).

Female Cricketer of the Year: Annabelle Wenn, Ovens Valley United (138 points).

Champion Player: Judd Campbell, Rovers United Bruck (409 points).

Under 12 – Gold

Batting – Average: Isaac McLarty, Yarrawonga Mul-

Best and brightest junior cricketers honoured

Female Cricketer of the Year: Kirsty Plevnik, Yarrawonga Mulwala (200 points).

Champion Player: Benji Wollington, Yarrawonga Mulwala (644 points).

(Delatite), Lucas Ham (Benalla Bushrangers) (wk), Gus Marek (City Colts), Xavier De Fazio (Benalla Bushrangers), Jack Spring (City Colts), Isaac McLarty (Yarrawonga Mulwala), Edward Clancy (Benalla Bushrangers).

Under 16 Rising Star –Monthly Winners: Reid McNamara, Rovers United Bruck; Noah White, Ovens Valley United; Nixen Martin, Delatite; Ryan Parsons, Rovers United Bruck; Ben McMasters, Ovens Valley United.

Under 16 Rising Star –Overall Winner: Ried McNamara, Rovers United Bruck.

Bowling – Aggregate: Isaac McLarty, Yarrawonga Mulwala (15 wickets).

Fielding: Harry Gumley, Wangaratta Magpies (13 catches, 1 run out).

Golden Gloves: Max Patterson, Wangaratta Magpies; Sam Mount, Benalla Bushrangers; Todd Lawless, Yarrawonga Mulwala (4 catches, 0 stumpings).

WDCA Junior Team of the Year

Reid McNamara (Rovers United Bruck) (C), Taylor Thomson (Beechworth Wanderers) (vc), Benji Wollington (Yarrawonga Mulwala) (vc), Judd Campbell (Rovers United Bruck) (vc), Ben McMasters (Ovens Valley United), Alasdair Brett (City Colts), Nixen Martin

A Grade Under 18 Rising Star – Monthly Winners: Noah White, Ovens Valley United; Jonty Priest, Benalla Bushrangers; Jed Marek, City Colts; Van Kreek, Yarrawonga Mulwala; Charlie Lugg, Rovers United Bruck; Lucas Ham, Benalla Bushrangers.

A Grade Under 18 Rising Star – Overall Winner: Jed Marek, City Colts.

Junior Volunteer of the Year: Jason Parsons, Rovers United Bruck.

CHAMPION PLAYER: Geeth Alwis needed a wheelbarrow to carry all of his awards from the WDCA senior presentation night. PHOTO: Janet Watt

Rylan Harris.

Ben McMasters.

Mitch McMasters.

Mountain Men claim sweet revenge

By NATHAN DE VRIES

THE blockbuster rst round of the Ovens and King football season lived up to the hype on Saturday.

As Greta unfurled their rst seniors premiership ag in 25 years in front of an exuberant home crowd, it would be Bright who went on to spoil the party in a thrilling upset.

A er four quarters of quality football, the Mountain Men pulled one over on the reigning premiers, taking the points 12.14 (86) to the Blues’ 11.11 (77).

A er falling at the nal hurdle last season to the tune of 68 points, the Mountain Men were determined to produce a better showing. It took some time to work into the game, with Greta’s mid eld pressure and forward prowess a ording them a 16-point lead at the rst break.

Bright seniors come over the top of premiers Greta in grand final rematch

Bright started moving the ball better, while the defensive structure started paying dividends.

Greta were kept goalless through the second term, as Bright found more forward entries to trail by just two points at half-time.

The second half was a struggle for both teams, as the realities of a full match and the humidity started having an e ect on players.

A ve goal to four third term kept Greta’s noses in

front to the tune of seven points with a quarter to play. Ultimately, Bright started to get on top in the mid eld while nullifying any Greta advance, and with more shots on goal in the nal term, the Mountain Men managed to run out winners by just nine points, a thrilling start to the

season for both teams.

Bright coach Michael Quirk said he was impressed by how his side performed against one of the benchmark teams of the competition.

“We always knew it was going to be tough when the xture came out – Greta, reign-

ing premiers, at the home ground was always going to be a very tough assignment, so we gave ourselves time to set ourselves for it,” he said.

“The rst ve minutes were very even, both sides were very competitive early, the Greta got onto the end of a few and kicked some goals,

and there was a bit of a buer there going into quarter time.

“We played Sam Buckley on Frazer Judd, we thought that would be a good matchup from our side.

“We wanted to be physical on a few players, we gave some players some jobs to do

and targeted their core group of players, their match-winners.

“I thought our guys stuck to their tasks quite well in shutdown roles.”

The Mountain Men li ed, and managed to kick true and defend hard to take the win by nine points.

Will Shem was best on ground for Bright, while forward dynamo Cooper Thomason kicked ve goals.

Greta’s Mark Wettern, Lachie Kennett and Josh Bell were impactful for the home side.

A er the heartbreak in September last year, Quirk said the monumental e ort from the whole team in the nal term was incredible to see.

“The three-quarter time address was all about how much they want to win it - you can talk about game plan and structures and all of that sort of stu , but it came down to how much both teams wanted to win it,” he said.

“‘Shemmy’ [Will Shem] ran with McClounan and did a very good job on James, minimised his impact.

“Buckley on Judd, Zander Dalbosco on [Josh] Bell, we think those guys did their job for the team and helped us win at the end of the day.” Bright hosts Whorouly this Saturday for their rst home game of season 2025.

Bright make huge statement in O&K netball opener

A STUNNING performance from Bright’s A grade netball team has secured them an historic rstround win against Greta last Saturday.

If 2024 ladder positions and recent history between the two sides were any indication of the outcome of the weekend’s game, then Bright had absolutely no right to win against the Blues in their seasonopening match, with Greta setting the benchmark for many years.

But the arrival of fresh faces into the squad, the continued development of former juniors Hannah Witts and Molly Whitty rising through the senior grades, and the in uence of new coach Ash Grimes have all contributed to the upset

seven-goal victory, with the scoreboard reading 30-23 at the end of four tense quarters.

In what was a low-scoring and high-pressure game from the outset, it was Bright who brought the heat early on, keeping up with the more-fancied Greta side to trail by one goal at the rst break, then managed to level the scores at 15all at half-time.

Not only were they competitive in the closing stages of the game, but Bright managed to hold Greta at bay, and increase their narrow lead to three goals with a quarter to play, then were able to extend the nal margin to seven goals by the nal whistle.

Highlighting the strength and

intensity of their defences at each end of the court, both sides struggled in front of the ring in terms of accuracy, with all shooters hovering around the 50 per cent conversion rate for the match.

Bright’s A grade coach Grimes, who was named best on court for her in uence on the game, was understandably thrilled with the side’s performance throughout the match.

“It was an absolutely amazing four-quarter e ort from the team, and every single player out on the court played their role and had a huge part in the win,” Grimes said.

“The team showed great determination, li ing the intensity when it mattered most, and the

girls really showed o all the hard work they had done in pre-season.

“We will be looking to build on this momentum in the coming weeks.”

Their next game against Whorouly, who themselves had a signi cant victory against reigning premier Bonnie Doon, will be another chance for Bright to see where they stand among the league’s best teams.

At a venue where visiting teams usually nd it hard to leave with success, Greta Recreation Reserve was a happy hunting ground for four of Bright’s ve netball sides, with their B grade, B reserve, under 17 and under 15 teams also recording early-season victories.

SOARING WIN: Ash Grimes and the A grade Bright side defeated Greta by seven goals.

PHOTO: Richard Xerri

HIT OUT: Greta’s Mark Wettern soars in the ruck.

ball as Cooper Thomason settles for the mark. PHOTOS: Richard Xerri

Docker a lock for Saints

ONE of the region’s most successful football products is returning to where it all started, with former Fremantle Docker Matt Tabener signing on for season 2025.

The club announced the signing via their social media early Friday a ernoon.

Taberner has a key gure at Fremantle for several years, playing 125 games at the AFL level across 13 years, and kicking 173 goals.

He was the club’s leading goal kicker in 2020 and 2021, and was delisted by the Dockers in 2024.

The 31-year-old began his football career with Bright and then joined the Myrtleford Football Netball Club before being drafted to Fremantle in 2012 via the AFL Rookie draft.

Taberner said he was eager to return to his roots and play for the club which holds a special place in his heart.

“I’m super excited about returning to Myrtleford and to contribute to the club where it all started for me,” he said.

“It’s a great opportunity for me to give back to the Saints community a er the club did a lot for me before I was dra ed.”

Myrtleford senior coach Craig Millar was elated at Taberner’s return.

“Having someone of Matt’s calibre return to our club is a huge boost for us,” Millar said.

“His professionalism, experience, and leadership will be invaluable.

“We can’t wait to see Matt back out on the eld wearing the Myrtleford colours again.”

The Saints commence their 2025 Ovens and Murray season at Biralee Park on Saturday, 12 April against Wodonga Raiders.

Thousands turn out for Buffalo Stampede

AT the 2025 Bu alo Stampede, the town of Bright welcomed 2,888 eager trail runners to embark on the tough and technical courses of the iconic Victorian mountain and trail running event.

In the 11th year of the event, participant numbers have exceeded all previous records.

The podiums were represented with athletes from all corners of the globe, and Bright locals stood shoulder to shoulder with international elite athletes at the end of the day.

Races ranged from the 2km Bright Junior Trail Run to the Bu alo Stampede 100km ordeal, and the most eager trail runners competed in multiday events.

The multi-day events saw some running the 10km, 100km and 42km all in the one weekend amassing a total of 152kms over the whole weekend.

Conditions over the weekend threw everything they could at the participants, with chilling winds at the Chalet of Mount Bu alo for the start of the Marathon early Sunday morning, and pouring rain to kick o the 100km event on Saturday morning with high humidity to deal with by midday.

Eszter Csillag from Hungary, the 100km female champion and second overall, had been in the area for over a week scouting the course.

She described the day as “perfect” and completed the 100km course in 10hr 51min 25sec, with a dominant second half of the course.

Mickey Dimuntes, the 42km marathon champion who ran from the Chalet of Mount Bu alo back to Bright in 3hrs 27min 45sec described the course as “fun, so nice and the middle section, beautiful.”

First-time runners all the way to

experienced national representatives toed the line this past weekend to take on some of the best trail running courses in the country.

A total of 34 countries were represented this weekend across the eld too, with Australia unsurprisingly the most represented, then UK, France, Austria, Canada, Spain and New Zealand athletes among the eld.

RESULTS

5km Family Fun Run

FEMALE

1st - Kate AVERY 26:06.

2nd - Isabel WINSBURY 27:13. 3rd - Naomi WARNER 29:25.

MALE

1st - Timothy MALONE 25:55. 2nd - Angus MILLER 28:24. 3rd - Harmon HOODCAMP 28:28.

10km Twilight SkySprint

FEMALE

1st - Sara-Jane DONGES 1:00:53. 2nd - Jessica RONAN 1:02:04.

3rd - Belinda DORE 1:02:11.

MALE

1st - Blake HOSE 52:56. 2nd - Iain BEST 53:53. 3rd - Dan TREVENA 55:42.

20km SkyRun

FEMALE

1st - Bridget LUNN 2:07:43. 2nd - Demi CALDWELL 2:08:42. 3rd - Laura GILLARD 2:08:55.

MALE

1st - Charlie HAMILTON 1:41:49. 2nd - James BARNETT 1:41:59.

3rd - Andrew GATENBY 1:43:12.

42km SkyMarathon

FEMALE

1st - Miah NOBLE 4:07:58. 2nd - Sophie BROOME 4:11:54. 3rd - Julia ANDERSON 4:13:27. MALE

1st - Mikey DIMUANTES 3:27:45. 2nd - Jack BRAND 3:41:10. 3rd - Gerald MACPHERSON 3:44:10. BRIGHT ULTRA 100km

FEMALE

1st - Eszter CSILLAG 10:51:25. 2nd - Bridie TEMPLE 12:32:05. 3rd - Hannah MCRAE 12:39:05. MALE

1st - Michael DUNSTAN 10:29:17. 2nd - Thomas DADE 11:07:21. 3rd - Tyla WINDHAM 11:20:55.

72km Bu alo Stampede Grand Slam FEMALE

1st - Lauren ROOKE 8:32:47. 2nd - Sarah PARKINS 8:58:35. 3rd - Tegan PORTER 9:11:24. MALE

1st - Jarrod OWEN 6:52:59. 2nd - Thomas SAUVAITRE 6:58:14. 3rd - Alex BATE 7:19:16.

152km Bright Ultra Grand Slam FEMALE

1st - Kate MACMUNN 25:09:18. MALE

1st - Jeremy MAY 18:47:39. 2nd - Samuel STOW 19:38:17. 3rd - Tim WOODS 20:08:27.

MATT’S BACK: Matt Taberner will return to his roots and play for Myrtleford this season.

PHOTO: Myrtleford Alpine Saints Football Netball Club/Facebook

SCENIC RACE: Participants in the Bu alo Stampede were treated to some gorgeous vistas of the Alpine region as they trekked through.

PHOTO: Kate Proctor

MARATHON MAN: Mikey Dimuantes won the men’s 42km marathon race. PHOTO: Majell Backhausen

Jessica Ronan, Sara-Jane Donges and Belinda Dore the first three across the line.

PHOTO: Majell Backhausen

TREKKING ALONG: Almost 3000 participants took to the rocky trails around Bright for the Bu alo Stampede weekend.

PHOTO: Kate Proctor

GIANT SLAYERS

Bright’s senior football side shocked the compeition a er defeating the reigning senior premiers Greta at home in round one of the O&K season. The Mountain Men came from the clouds to record a nine-point win.

■ Story page 25.

Lions roar

Whorouly knock o 2023 football premiers, 2024 netball premiers in round one of O&K

THERE’S plenty to be excited about out at the Den this season.

Whorouly’s senior football squad sent a message to the competition in their rst outing, a er the Lions recorded a massive 56-point win over the fancied Bonnie Doon Bombers.

A er a recruiting blitz in the oseason, the Lions looked the goods a er stunning the Bombers 12.7 (79) to 3.5 (23).

BY NATHAN DE VRIES ndevries@

nemedia.com.au

As the game wore on, tensions ared, the heat of the contest leading to some free kicks and easy goals for the Bombers.

16 points 5.9 (39) to 7.13 (55).

Whorouly started well but the back line was a tad loose, allowing the Bombers some easy shots on goal.

Perfect start for Bombers

A NEW season has begun and Dederang-Mount Beauty’s A grade netball side have continued their winning ways with a comprehensive defeat of Rutherglen at Barkly Park last Saturday.

The Bombers, who have retained all but one of last year’s squad and regained gun defender Danielle Beer in the off-season to strengthen their chances of reaching successive finals campaigns, have already found their groove early on with a 47-18 victory away from home.

A determined DMB team were hoping to hit the ground running and did just that with an early seven-goal lead, followed by a 21-8 scoreline at half-time.

The margin extended to 21 goals to put the result beyond doubt in the third quarter, but Rutherglen rallied late to produce their best quarter in the last as the Bombers sealed a 29-goal win.

Alysha de Koeyer (30 goals) and Keely Bullivant (17) combined to dominate inside the circle, while Beer and Emily Jansen van Beek resumed their defensive partnership from 2023 with great success.

Dederang-Mount Beauty’s senior football side could not repeat the success of their peers on the court as a Rutherglen outfit at home, who are expected to improve in 2025, were far too good for the Bombers in their opening match of the season.

DMB made a bright start in the first quarter, and were only trailing by a single point at the first break, but conceded six second-quarter goals, then thirteen further majors in the second half without scoring one of their own, which ended in a 20.24 (144) to 1.3 (9) defeat.

The recruits made their presence known early, with Max Scott, Russ Eden and the back line holding rm, while the forwards presented well. Senior coach Michael Newton was dominant inside forward 50, looking solid above his head and kicking true to nish with a bag of six goals.

Ed Woolford stood tall in the ruck, while Abe Ankers and Jessie Smith worked hard in and around the contest.

Luke Berriman was best on for the visiting Bombers, with Guy Murray, Peter Cairns and Jayjay Curtain good as well.

The result is a massive turnaround from the last time the Lions played the Bombers, a reversal of fortunes to the tune of 223 points.

The earlier reserves game went less well for the Lions, downed by

the

and High Country has to o er.

Matt Harris was best on ground, while Ben Harrington and Jon Pethybridge kicked two goals each.

Over on the netball court, the Lions produced a stunning upset in the A grade competition.

Reigning A grade premiers Bonnie Doon was humbled by the erce Lions, with Whorouly taking the win 52-40.

Whether it be local events, food and wine or exploring the region’s many natural attractions, Alpine Alive provides a comprehensive guide of things to do and see.

The new format Alpine Alive will be printed in full colour on premium white newsprint and will be published six times a year to coincide with key visitor times and local events.

As well as being inserted into the Myrtleford Times and Alpine Observer, the supplement will also be a stand alone publication with 500 extra copies being distributed at key tourism/visitor locations across the Alpine Shire and Visitor Information Centres throughout North East Victoria.

■ Continued page 23

Mitch Sivell opened the Bombers’ account with an early goal, while Clancy Lloyd, Emerson Lemkau and Jacob Ozolins were amongst the best players in what was a tough start to their campaign.

Dederang-Mount Beauty will welcome Wahgunyah to Mount Beauty this Saturday for their first home game of the season.

PHOTO: Richard Xerri